^. 


e>. 


1^.  ^    ^     aN> 


IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-3) 


1.0 


I.I 


1.25 


■-121    |2.5 
|io  "^     IBIi^ 

■^  !■■  mil  2  2 

I'-  H^ 

fciUU 

1.8 


1-4    11.6 


Hiotographic 

Sciences 

Corporation 


23  WEST  MAIN  STREET 

WEBSTER,  N.Y,  14580 

(716)  872-4503 


^-^ 


if 


S4l^ 


!^ 


MA 


CIHM/ICMH 

Microfiche 

Series. 


%■■■ 

I 


CIHM/ICMH 
Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for  Historical  Microreproductions  /  Institut  Canadian  de  microreproductions  historiques 


Technical  and  Bibliographic  Notes/Notes  techniques  et  bibliographiques 


The  Institute  has  attempted  to  obtain  the  best 
original  copy  available  for  filming.  Features  of  this 
copy  which  may  be  bibliographically  unique, 
which  may  alter  any  of  the  images  in  the 
reproduction,  or  which  may  significantly  change 
the  usual  method  of  filming,  are  checked  below. 


□    Coloured  covers/ 
Couverture  de  couleur 


D 
D 


7 


D 


D 
D 


D 


D 


Covers  damaged/ 
Couverture  endommagde 

Covers  restored  and/or  laminated/ 
Couverture  restaur^e  et/ou  pellicul^e 


V~7    Cover  title  missing/ 
yi    Le  titre  de  couverture  manque 


I      I    Coloured  maps/ 


Cartes  gdographiques  en  couleur 


Coloured  ink  (I.e.  other  than  blue  or  black)/ 
Encre  de  couleur  (i.e.  autre  que  bleue  ou  noire) 


I      I    Coloured  plates  and/or  illustrations/ 


Planches  et/ou  Illustrations  en  couleur 

Bound  with  other  material/ 
Reli6  avec  d'autres  documents 

Tight  binding  may  cause  shadows  or  distortion 
along  Interior  margin/ 

La  reliurj  serr^e  peut  causer  de  I'ombre  ou  de  la 
distortion  le  long  de  la  marge  int^rieure 

Blank  leaves  added  during  restoration  may 
appear  within  the  text.  Whenever  possible,  these 
have  been  omitted  from  filming/ 
II  se  peut  que  certaines  pages  blanches  ajoutdes 
lors  d'une  restauration  apparalssent  dans  le  texte, 
mals,  lorsque  cela  dtalt  possible,  ces  pages  n'ont 
pas  6t6  filmdes. 

Additional  comments:/ 
Commentaires  suppl6mentalres; 


L'Instltut  a  microfilm^  le  mellleur  exemplaire 
qu'il  lui  a  6t6  possible  de  se  procurer.  Les  details 
de  cet  exemplaire  qui  sont  peut-§tre  uniques  du 
point  de  vue  bibliographique,  qui  peuvent  modifier 
une  image  reproduite,  ou  qui  peuvent  exiger  une 
modification  dans  la  m^thode  normale  de  fllmage 
sont  Indlqu6s  ci-dessous. 


I      I    Coloured  pages/ 


Pages  de  couleur 

Pages  damaged/ 
Pages  endommag6es 


W- 


I      I    Pages  restored  and/or  laminated/ 


^ 


Pages  restaur^es  et/ou  pelllcul^es 

Pages  discoloured,  stained  or  foxed/ 
Pages  d^colordes,  tachet^es  ou  piqudes 


□    Pages  detached/ 
Pages  d^tach^es 

□    Showthrough/ 
Trj 


D 


D 


Transparence 

Quality  of  prir 

Quality  Indgale  de  I'impresslon 

Includes  supplementary  materii 
Comprend  du  materiel  supplementaire 


fe 


I      I    Quality  of  print  varies/ 

I      I    Includes  supplementary  material/ 


Only  edition  available/ 
Seule  Edition  disponible 

Pages  wholly  or  partially  obscured  by  errata 
slips,  tissues,  etc.,  have  been  refllmed  to 
ensure  the  best  possible  image/ 
Les  pages  totalement  ou  partlellement 
obscurcies  par  un  feuillet  d'errata,  une  pelure, 
etc.,  ont  6x6  filmdes  d  nouveau  de  fapon  d 
obtenir  la  mellleure  image  possible. 


This  item  is  filmed  at  the  reduction  ratio  checked  below/ 

Ce  document  est  film6  au  taux  de  reduction  indlqud  ci-dessous. 

10X  14X  18X  22X 


12X 


16X 


20X 


26X 


30X 


3 

24X 


28X 


32X 


ire 

details 
les  du 
modifier 
ler  une 
filmage 


The  copy  filmed  here  has  been  reproduced  thanks 
to  the  generosity  of: 

Library  of  Congress 
Photoduplication  Service 

The  images  appearing  here  are  the  best  quality 
possible  considering  the  condition  and  legibility 
of  the  original  copy  and  in  keeping  with  the 
filming  contract  specifications. 


L'exemplaire  filmA  fut  reproduit  grAce  d  la 
gAnirositi  de: 

Library  of  Congress 
Photoduplication  Service 

Les  images  suivantes  ont  6tA  reproduites  avec  le 
plus  grand  soin,  compte  tdnu  69  la  condition  et 
de  la  nettetA  de  I'oxemplaire  film6,  et  en 
conformity  avec  les  conditions  du  contrat  de 
filmage. 


§es 


re 


Original  copies  in  printed  paper  covers  are  filmed 
beginning  with  the  front  cover  and  ending  on 
the  last  page  with  a  printed  or  illustrated  impres- 
sion, or  the  back  cover  when  appropriate.  All 
other  original  copies  are  filmed  beginning  on  the 
first  page  with  a  printed  or  illustrated  impres- 
sion, and  ending  on  the  last  page  with  a  printed 
or  illustrated  impression. 


The  last  recorded  frame  on  each  microfiche 
shall  contain  the  symbol  — ^>  (meaning  "CON- 
TINUED"), or  the  symbol  y  (meaning  "END"), 
whichever  applies. 

Maps,  plates,  charts,  etc.,  may  be  filmed  at 
different  reduction  ratios.  Those  too  large  to  be 
entirely  included  in  one  exposure  are  filmed 
beginning  in  the  upper  left  hand  corner,  left  to 
right  and  top  to  bottom,  as  many  frames  as 
required.  The  following  diagrams  illustrate  the 
method: 


Les  exemplaires  originaux  dont  la  couverture  en 
papier  est  imprimie  sont  film6s  en  commen^ant 
par  ie  premier  plat  et  en  terminant  soit  par  ia 
derniAre  page  qui  comporte  une  empreinte 
d'impression  ou  d'illustration,  soit  par  le  second 
plat,  selon  le  cas.  Tous  les  autres  exemplaires 
originaux  sont  film6s  en  commenpant  par  la 
premidre  page  qui  comporte  une  empreinte 
d'impression  ou  d'illustration  et  en  terminant  par 
la  derniire  page  qui  comporte  une  teiie 
empreinte. 

Un  des  symbolas  suivants  apparaitra  sur  la 
derniAre  image  de  cheque  microfiche,  selon  ie 
cas:  le  symbole  — ►  signifie  "A  SUIVRE ',  le 
symbole  V  signifie  "FIN". 

Les  cartes,  planches,  tableaux,  etc.,  peuvent  dtre 
film^s  A  des  taux  de  rMuction  diff^rents. 
Lorsque  le  document  est  trop  grand  pour  6tre 
reproduit  en  un  seul  clich6,  il  est  film6  d  partir 
da  Tangle  sup6rieur  gauche,  de  gauche  d  droite, 
et  de  haut  en  bas,  en  prenant  le  nombre 
d'images  nicessaire.  Les  diagrammes  suivants 
iliustrent  la  m6thode. 


f  errata 
d  to 

It 

16  pelure, 

pen  d 


n 


1 

2 

3 

32X 


1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

w-- 


The  New  Tomb,  Mount  Vernon.  —Sec  p.  13. 


••'W 


sc 


Notch  of  the  White  Hills,  from  the  North.— See  p.  158 


THINGS  AS  THEY  ARE: 


OR, 


NOTES  OF  A  TRAVELLER 


p.  158 


THROUOH 


SOME  OF  THE  MIDDLE  AND  NORTHERN  STATES. 


NEW- YORK: 

HARPER  &.  BROTHF,RS-82  CLIPF-3TREET 


1834. 


I, 


Washi 


[Entered  according  to  tlin  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1834,  by  Harper 
&  Ukothefs,  in  the  Clerk's  Oflice  of  the  Southern  District  of  New- 
York,] 


Washi 
Ami 
— R 


Baltini 


Philad 


New-I 
boat 


The  S 
— F 


New-"! 
tion 
turn 
ranc 
the: 


New-1 

.    eign 


'-^^ 


1834,  by  Harper 
District  of  New- 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  I. 


Washington — Mount  Vcmon ^ 

CHAPTER  H. 

Washington — Advantages  of  Small  Capitals— Salutary  Hints  to 
Ambition — Foreigner  disappointed — More  Reflections — Vines 
—Railroad 17 

CHAPTER  HI. 

Biiltimore — Route  to  Philadelphia — Railroads      .         .        .28 

CHAPTER  IV. 

Philadelphia 28 

CHAPTER  V. 

New-York — Activity  of  Citizens — Merchants — Societies — Steam- 
boats      31 

CHAPTER  VI. 

The  Sea-shore — Long  Branch — Bathing — Scenery — Shipwrecks 
— Forms  of  Danger  and  Modes  of  Escape        .        .        .37 

CHAPTER  VII. 

New-York — Books — The  Apparatus  of  Literature — Conversa- 
tions with  Booksellers  on  Public  Taste,  &c. — A  Friend  re- 
turned from  a  Tour  to  Europe — Foreign  Feelings  and  Igno- 
rance respecting  America — Varwmg  Aspects  of  the  Streets  of 
the  Metropolis — Impressions  dm  observing  thenii    .        .     46 

CHAPTER  Vni. 

New- York  continued — Foreign  Residents  and  Visiters — For- 
eign Books 66 


•^v^f 


VI 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Fashions  and  old  Fashionfl  in  Travelling— New-York  Harbour- 
Retreat  of  Wnshintfton's  Army  from  Long  Island— The  East 
River— liow  State  of  Agriculture  caused  by  our  defective  Edu- 
cation— Hell  Gate — Long  Island  Sound         .        ■        •      ♦'• 

CHAPTER  X. 

New-Haven— Literary  Aspcct-Rcfined  Society— Taste  in  Archi- 
tecture—Burying-ground— Franklin  Institute— Paintings  of 
Trumbull— American  Taste — Learning         ...      73 

CHAPTER  XI. 

A  Connecticut  Clergyman's    Family— Wood-hauling-Middlc 


town 


88 


CHAPTER  XH. 


i  i 


Hartford— Charter  Hill,  the  Scat  of  the  Willis  Family— Public 
Institutions— Society— Antiquities        ....      97 

CHAPTER  Xin. 

Narrative  of  a  Visit  to  the  Springs  in  tho  last  Century  —News- 
papers   ^^'* 

CHAPTER  XIV. 

Music— New-England  Villages  contrasted  with  Italy  on  this  sub- 
ject—A Traveller  in  search  of  Health— Burying-grounds— 
Rural  Celebration  of  Independence  at  Northampton— Amherst 
— Academies  of  Massachusetts — Exhibition.        .        .113 

CHAPTER  XV. 

Female  Character- A  Connecticut  School— Scenery  on  Connec- 
ticut River— Deerfield— Turner's  Falls— Early  State  of  the 
Country ^^* 

CHAPTER  XVI. 

Copies  of  ancient  Letters,  illustr.iting  something  of  the  State  of 
Things  in  this  Part  of  the  Country  early  in  the  last  Cen- 
tury      '^^ 

CHAPTER  XVH. 

Erroneous  Opinions  of  Foreigners  of  our  Society— A  great  politU 
cal  Character— Sabbath-school *3a 


CONTENTS. 


V« 


w-York  Harbour— 

;  Island— The  East 

'  our  defective  Edu- 

.      fi3 


ity— Taste  in  Archi- 

tute — Paintings    of 

.      73 


)d-hauling — Middlc- 

.      88 


illis  Family— Public 
.      97 


ust  Century —News- 
.     104 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

Approach  to  the  White  Hills— JJath— Reflections  on  Sooicly 
—The  Wild  Ammonoosuc— Ureton  Woods — Crawford's— 
Scenery 14:$ 

CHAPTER  XIX. 

Excursion  to  Mount  Washington— Walk  through  the  Forest— 

The  Camp— Ascent  of  the  Mountain — View  from  the  Summit 

.   —The  Notch— Old  Crawford's— Uartlct         .        .         .     151 

CHAPTER  XX. 

Boston — Environs — Literary  Institutions — Mount  Auburn— Re- 
mark* on  our  Intellectual  Machinery     .        .         .         .160 

CHAPTER  XXI. 

Nahant— Plymouth— Principles  of  the  Pilgrims— Their  Institu- 
tions — Excuse  for  not  knowing  more — Lyceums    .         .165 

CHAPTER  XXII. 

New-York— Hotels— Sculpture— South  America— Dr.  Sweet- 
Foreign  Inventions 175 


nth  Italy  on  this  sub- 
— Burying-grounds — 
rthampton — Amherst 
on  .         .        .     113 


-Scenery  on  Connec- 

-Early  State  of  the 

.        .     122 


ithing  of  the  State  of 

arly  in  the  last  Cen- 

.129 


jciety — A  great  politi- 
.         .        .     135, 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

A  new  Comer  of  the  World— Recollections  of  the  Cholera     185 

CHAPTER  XXIV. 

Fashionable  Education — Hudson  River — The  Power  of  Fancy 

Catskill     Mountains — Thunder-storms — Rainbows — Morning 
Scene  ..........     193 

CHAPTER  XXV. 

Method  and  Effects  of  Labour-saving  in  teaching  Latin— A 
Frontiers-man — Early  History— Conversations  on  Health  and 
Dress 199 

CHAPTER  XXVI. 

The  Privileges  of  American  Citizens  in  Trial  by  Jury— Battle- 
ground  of  Saratoga — Former  State  of  Ballston  Springs — 
Leisure  Time — The  Beauties  of  the  German  Language — A 
Foreign  Spirit  in  America— Value  of  oCir  own  Tongue   .    207 


"nrs?" 


vUi 


CONTENTS. 


'hi 


!1 


CHArTEU  XXVII. 

Thoughts  on  Foreign  Trnvel-Dr.  Sweet,  the  natural  Bonc^- 
getter—Retiring  Travellers 

CHAPTER  XXVIII. 

Kvil  Fffccts  of  Pnciin  Education  in  a  Christian  Land— Improve- 
mentsn  Temperance-Sources  ..f  intcn,perato  Hab.ls  m  our 
Countiv-Proper  Estimation  of  Foreign  Travel-Our  own 
Sid  pS«ical  Resources-Negligenco  of  g^ 
making  Travels  at  home  Pleasing  and^scful-A  Oard-pany 
in  a  Steamboat 

CHAPTER  XXIX. 

Whitehall-story  of  Sergeant  Tom,  a  Crcnturo  of  the  Revolution 
_lX  oS-Chamang  Scenery  and  Interesting  H.stoncal 
AssociationslTiconderoga-A  Revolutionary  Tradit.on-An 
Oracle  of  Philology— Crown  Pomt 


t46 


CHAPTER  XXX. 


Feeling,  on  entering  Canada-Stato  of  Sf  i«'y-E'"'e'?n|;r: 
Scenery,  &c.  on  the  St.  Lawrence-Architecture-W.lful 
Errors  on  Education  in  Convents 

CHAPTER  XXXI. 

Different  Travellers  have  different  Eycs-Thc  Polish  Exile»- 
"  Regret,  o^  the  Necessity  of  closing-"  Tom  Slowslarter^ 
Farewell 


N( 


Wiioi 

session 
fault  if  1 
ation,  01 
objects 
idlers   h 
The  re| 
glad  to 
tlon  to  r 
expect  f 
him  be  ( 
sonablc, 
the  merr 
have  th( 
tive,  or 
them, 
thin,  re! 
talents  ^ 
or  a  tho 
strange 
pie  out 
like  this 
it  pleas( 
commor 
thing. 


^V.. 


3  natural  Bonc- 

.   2ia 


Land— Improvfl- 
to  Habits  in  our 
'ravel — Our  own 
of  good  Men  in 
j1— A  Card-party 
.     827 


NOTES  OF    A  TRAVELLER. 


CHAPTER  I. 


of  the  Revolution 
resting  Historical 
y  Tradition — An 

.    satt 


ity — Emigrant*— 

hitecture— Wilful 

.    243 


!  Polish  Exiles— 
»m  Slowstarter'i" 
.        .        :     248 


Washington — Mount  Vernon. 

Whoever  visits  Washington  for  the  first  time  during  the 
session  of  Congress  has  much  to  observe.  It  is  his  own 
fault  if  he  does  not  find  some  one  who  will  give  him  inform- 
ation, or  help  him  to  amusement  among  the  variety  of 
objects  and  characters  around  him.  There  are  always 
idlers  hanging  on  some  petition,  who  have  news  to  tell. 
The  representatives  and  senators  from  his  state  will  be 
glad  to  see  him  as  their  countryman,  and  feel  an  obliga- 
tion to  render  him  some  of  those  attentions  which  he  might 
expect  from  the  consul  of  his  nation  in  a  foreign  port.  JjCt 
him  be  carefid,  however,  not  to  look  for  more  than  is  rea- 
sonable, for  business  is  very  pressing  upon  a  largo  part  of 
the  members,  and  calls  of  this  kind  are  frequent.  Members 
have  their  trials  like  other  men ;  and  if  they  grow  inatten- 
tive, or  even  show  a  disposition  to  get  rid  of  you,  forgive 
them.  Many  a  speech  is  made  in  the  House  and  Senate  to 
thin,  restless,  coughing,  and  whispering  audiences ;  and 
talents  which  have  transported  their  possessor  five  hundred 
or  a  tiiousand  miles  to  a  seat  in  the  government,  now,  by  a 
strange  reaction,  will  sometimes  send  fifty  or  a  hundred  peo- 
ple out  of  the  House.  Events  multiply  daily  in  a  country 
like  this ;  and  time  goes  on  in  spite  of  every  thing,  though 
it  please  only  a  very  small  minority  at  best ;  and  although 
commonly  nobody  can  be  found  who  ia  satisfied  in  every 
thing.     In  the  main,  the  members  are  about  as  civil  to  per- 

2 


t^- 


JglTTBii 


■MM) 


10 


riTV  or  WARiiiNnTON. 


I 


! 


BotiB  indifTercnt  to  them,  iw  other  people  are  whose  interest 
it  is  on  the  whole  rather  to  please  than  to  (liajjleiise  ;  and 
will  nii'et  you  in  the  rotinuia  of  the  cnpiiol  by  appointment ; 
inlrodiice  you  into  the  library  of  (,'ongre.ss  ;  tell  what  senator 
in  lookinjr  oui  of  the  middle  window,  or  wiiat  tiisiinjfjiished 
represent  itive  is  turning  over  Audubon's  Ornitliolojjy  ;  point 
to  the  Tresident's  house,  the  departments,  the  patent-oflice, 
and  the  top  of  the  dome,  as  objects  worthy  of  a  visit ;  ami 
then  entering  their  chamber,  introduce  you  to  a  few  loungers 
near  their  own  seals,  yawning  at  the  thoughts  of  another 
stupid  day,  or  nervous  and  feverish  with  anxiety  about  the 
country  or  themselves.  If  it  be  gloomy  weather,  late  in 
the  session,  you  feel  as  if  you  were  ii'i  a  pri.son,  for  the 
people  seem  as  dissatistied  as  convicts.  One  is  lost  in 
thought  about  something  invisible,  another  blushes  over  some 
newspaper  which  has  attacked  him,  a  third  hurries  to  hear 
whether  you  have  brought  any  news,  and  ail  are  cither 
hoping  or  despairing  about  soon  obtaining  their  r(  lease. 

The  broad  staircase  on  the  east  side  of  the  capitol,  by 
which  you  wearily  mount  from  the  level  of  the  yard  to  tiie 
floor  of  the  houses,  the  rotunda,  <fcc.,  is  a  del()rn\ity,  inter- 
fering exceedingly  with  the  architectural  beauty  of  the 
front.  It  is  unprecedented  in  Europe,  so  far  as  I  have  seen, 
unless  the  capitol  of  Rome  siioidd  be  claimed  as  an  ex- 
ample, which  cannot  with  i)ropriety  be  done.  The  "stairs 
whicli  lead  to  the  capitol"  of  that  inetroi)olis  are  made  merely 
to  mount  the  hill,  and  do  not  cover  a  large  part  of  the 
edifice. 

I  was  nmch  pleased  with  the  morning  scene  from  the 
terrace,  and  still  more  with  that  from  the  top  of  the  capitol. 
The  view  would  be  splendid  indeed  if  tiie  city  were  of  the 
size  originally  expected,  or  even  if  the  surrounding  country 
were  well  cultivated.  I  could  not,  however,  spend  much 
time  in  the  city,  without  first  visiting  Mount  Vernon.  The 
very  name  of  that  place  had  long  been  dear  to  me.  The 
sound  always  seemed  sweet  and  solemn  to  my  ears.  I 
have  had  a  peculiar  feeling  for  it  ever  since  the  day  when 
my  father  came  home  with  a  badge  of  mourning  upon 
his  arm,  and  said,  with  a  tear  in  his  eye,  that  General 


Washing 
day  I  p,i 
these,  til 
all  other 
could  lie 
did  he  d 
ciatcd  w 
always 
of  solem 
was  no« 

Not  f 
feelings 
cced  ihi 
niorning 
of  the  I 
Hill  to  ( 
Potomac 
exceptioi 
ever,  wli 
waste  a] 
most  of  I 
acres  \n 
care ;  ai; 
large  sh: 
valuable 
sented  b; 
and  abar 
road  to  I 
whole  ri( 
a  few  pli 
peared  to 
saw  seer 
on  those 
planters 
soon  to  I 
abandonc 
not  ener^ 

Shrub 
ii»  de89j 


■ 


MOUNT  TERNON. 


11 


ire  whose  interest 

0  (lispleiiHP  ;  and 

1  by  appointment ; 
tell  what  senator 

^liiit  (listint^iiished 
•rnitlioh»i;y ;  point 

liie  patent-otFice, 
ly  of  a  visit ;  and 

to  a  few  loung((r8 
>n(rhts  of  another 
anxiety  about  the 

weather,  late  in 

a  prison,  for  the 

One  is  lost   ill 

blushes  over  some 

I'd  hurries  to  hear 

nd   all  are  either 

their  release. 
)f  the  eapitol,  by 
)f  the  yard  to  the 
I  del()rmity,  inter- 
id  beauty  of  the 
"ar  as  I  have  seen, 
lainied  as  an  cx- 
ne.  The  "  stairs 
i  arc  made  merely 
arge  part  of  the 

scene  from  the 
lop  of  the  eaj)itol. 

<;ity  were  of  the 
■rounding  country 
ver,  spend  nnich 
nt  Vernon.  The 
3ar  to  me.     The 

to  my  ears.  I 
ce  the  day  when 

mourning  upon 
ye,  that  General 


Washington  was  dead.  In  the  sadness  of  our  house  that 
day  I  participated  as  a  child,  with  hut  few  ideas  beyoid 
these,  that  a  man,  loved  and  venerated  by  my  father  above 
all  others,  had  left  the  world,  and  that  such  excellence  as  I 
could  never  liope  to  see  was  gone  for  ever.  And  where 
did  he  die?  At  Mount  Vernon.  So  sweet  a  name,  asso- 
ciatcd  with  such  feelings  in  the  mind  of  a  stripling,  I  had 
always  heard  with  emotion;  and  it  was  with  a  degree 
of  solemnity  that  it  occurred  to  me  at  Washington,  that  I 
was  now  in  the  vicinity  of  the  place. 

Not  falling  in  company  with  any  persons  of  coiigeniul 
feelings  who  wished  to  visit  the  spot,  I  detcrminf-d  to  pro- 
ceed thither  alone  ;  aiul  mounting  a  horse,  set  off  one  fine 
morning  on  that  most  interesting  pilgrimage.  A  great  part 
of  the  low  level  land  which  exleruls  souUi  from  Capitol 
Hill  to  tJreenleafs  Point,  where  the  East  Branch  joins  the 
Potomac,  is  entirely  unenclosed  and  uncultivated,  with  the 
exception  of  a  field  here  aiul  there.  I  passed  a  spot,  how- 
ever, which  makes  the  strongest  contrast  with  die  general 
waste  appearance  of  this  extensive  tract,  and  indeed  with 
most  of  tjie  soil  in  the  vicinity  of  Washington.  There  foui 
acres  have  been  enclosed,  manured,  and  cultivated  with 
care ;  and  now  supply  the  market  of  the  metropolis  with  a 
large  share  of  its  vegetables,  yielding  to  the  proprietor  a 
valuable  income.  What  a  lamentable  picture  is  pre- 
sented by  a  country  like  this,  worn  out  by  exhausting  crops, 
and  abandoned  years  ago  to  sterility  and  solitude  I  The 
road  to  Baltimore  lies  through  a  similar  region ;  and  my 
whole  ride  to  Mount  Vernon  offered  only  the  sad  variriy  of 
a  few  plantations,  where  the  same  debilitating  process  ap- 
peared to  have  been  not  quite  completed.  The  few  crops  I 
saw  seemed  to  say  that  they  were  destined  to  be  the  last 
on  those  extensive  fields ;  and  the  scattered  habitations  of 
planters  and  slaves  looked  as  if  ready  to  be  deserted,  and 
soon  to  resemble  the  ruins  seen  on  former  sites,  long  since 
abandoned.  The  people  are  the  first  I  ever  saw  who  have 
not  energy  enough  to  pull  down  their  old  houses. 

Shrub  oaks  and  other  stunted  trees  have  sprung  up  on 
tiw  deserted  fields,  and  show  how  slow  is  nature  to  recover 


13 


MOUNT  VERNON. 


the  springs  of  vegetable  life  when  they  have  once  been  cut 
off.  Among  these  I  often  paused  to  contemplate  the  grand 
aspect  of  the  capitol  from  a  distance,  which  is  visible  from 
a  thousand  points  around.  The  enormous  tolls  paid  on  the 
road  to  Alexandria  show  the  inconveniences  arising  to 
travellers  out  of  a  thin  population.  Roads  and  bridges  are 
erected  at  greater  expense,  and  contributions  for  their  sup- 
port are  divided  among  a  few  instead  of  multitudes.  1  he 
reconstruction  of  the  long  bridge  over  the  Potomac,  as  1 
ought  to  have  mentioned,  has  been  undertaken :  but  it 
seems  to  me  a  discouraging  task,  especially  since  the  steam- 
boats carry  so  large  a  part  of  the  travellers  on  the  route  to 

Alexandria.  , 

Alexandria  is  a  large  town,  with  spacious  stores  near  the 
water,  and  in  the  upper  part  several  streets  of  handsome 
and  even  elegant  houses.  The  view  of  the  city  and  its 
environs,  from  an  eminence  beyond  it,  was  such  as  to  show 
its  extent  and  principal  edifices,  yet  not  to  exhibit  any  thing 
of  its  harbour  or  the  general  plan  of  the  streets.  After  this 
I  had  nothing  like  an  extensive  or  a  pleasmg  view  during 
the  rest  of  my  ride,  as  the  season  was  not  far  enough  aU- 
Tanced  to  give  the  woods  all  their  beauty,  the  late  rams  had 
rendered  the  road  very  wet,  and  the  habitations  of  men  were 

few  and  poor.  , 

Al  length  I  entered  the  Mount  Vernon  estate ;  and  there 
was  some  feeling  excited  by  »he  thought  of  the  cavalcades 
and  personages  that  had  passed  through  the  same  gate.     1 
was  also  reminded  of  visits  I  had  made  to  Roman  villas, 
and  the  -lef  srted  avenues  to  ancient  cities;  and  my  impres- 
sions were  in  some  respects  similar,  though  in  others  very 
different  from  any  thing  I  had  ever  experienced  before. 
The  solitude  was  as  profound  as  that  of  any  deserted  region 
of  Italy;  the  habitations  of  men,  at  many  parts  of  the  road, 
seemed  as  distant;  and  nature  appeared  almost  as  much 
left  to  herself.     But  who  can  describe  the  difference  be- 
tween the  character  of  VYashington  and  that  of  the  ancient 
warriors,  whose  memory  we  associate  with  the  scenes  they 
visited  ?     Though  our  education  teaches  us  far  too  much  to 
admire  them,  plain  sense  as  well  as  Christianity  leads  t»  t. 


despis 
will  o 
just  e 
heart  ; 
antiqii 
junctit 
exert  1 

Th( 
times 
reache 
nearer 
dwelli 
offerei 
on  to 
Two  1 
from  I 
what 
have  I 
sloping 
the  pr 
broad 
have  I 
of  lan( 

Th( 
movct 
brow  I 
yard  e 
which 
may  j 
scripti 
alone 
I  appr 
and  h 
define 
hours 
bitter, 
and  h 
or  whi 
k»  mi 


TOMB  OF  OBMERAL  WA8HINOT0N. 


IS 


re  once  been  cut 
mplate  the  grand 
;h  is  visible  from 
I  tolls  paid  on  the 
ences   arising   to 
i  and  bridges  are 
ons  for  their  sup- 
multitudes.     The 
le  Potomac,  as  I 
dertaken:   but  it 
y  since  the  sleam- 
rs  on  the  route  to 

us  stoves  near  the 
3ets  of  handsome 
f  the  city  and  its 
s  such  as  to  show 
)  exhibit  any  thing 
itreets.  After  this 
;asing  view  during 
ot  far  enough  ad- 
,  the  late  rains  had 
jtions  of  men  were 

estate;  and  there 
of  the  cavalcades 
the  same  gate.     I 
;  to  Roman  villas, 
s ;  and  my  impres- 
Bugh  in  others  very 
ixperienced  before, 
any  deserted  region 
f  parts  of  the  road, 
id  almost  as  much 
the  difTerence  be- 
that  of  the  ancient 
vith  the  scenes  they 
3  us  far  too  much  to 
istianity  leads  ub  t» 


despise  their  motives  and  to  condemn  their  actions.  When 
will  our  children  be  trained  up  to  a  clear  conception  and  a 
just  estimate  of  the  character  of  Washington,  in  whose 
heart  alone  was  more  real  greatness  than  in  all  heathen 
antiquity?  His  principles  and  conduct,  enforced  by  the  in- 
junctions of  the  Scriptures,  what  influence  might  they  nol 
exert  upon  the  minds  and  hearts  of  American  youth  ! 

The  rear  of  the  family-mansion  appears  two  or  three 
times  through  openings  in  the  foliage,  before  the  visiter 
reaches  it ;  and  although  it  is  venerable,  it  shows,  on  a 
nearer  approach,  evident  marks  of  decay.  I  passed  the 
dwellings  of  the  negroes,  where  an  old  family  servant 
offered  his  services  as  guide ;  and  dismounting,  hastened 
on  to  get  rid  of  the  groups  which  assembled  around  me. 
Two  ranges  of  out-buildings,  now  partly  disused,  run  back 
from  the  ends  of  the  mansion  and  form  a  court, — in  which 
what  messengers  have  heretofore  reined  up,  what  guests 
have  alighted !  The  plain  piazza  in  front,  with  the  Hao 
sloping  and  partly  shaded  lawn,  descending  to  llie  brow  of 
the  precipice  over  the  Potomac,  the  clumps  of  old  trees,  the 
broad  and  winding  river  below,  all  appear  much  as  tliey 
have  been  represented  for  half  a  century  on  so  many  sorts 
of  landscape  furniture  with  which  we  have  been  familiar. 

The  remains  of  the  father  of  his  country  have  been  re- 
moved within  a  few  months  from  the  old  family-vauh,  on  the 
brow  of  the  precipice,  to  a  spot  near  the  corner  of  the  vine- 
yard enclosure,  where  the  river  is  concealed  from  view,  but 
which  was  selected  by  him  during  life.  A  hasty  sketch 
may  give  better  ideas  of  its  appearance  than  any  de- 
scription. I  dismissed  my  guide,  that  I  might  indulge 
alone  in  the  feelings  which  had  been  rising  in  my  heart  aa 
I  approached  the  spot  I  had  so  long  regarded  with  reverence  ; 
and  however  dilHcult  it  might  be  to  trace  their  source  or  to 
define  tlieir  nature,  I  am  sure  that  I  have  spent  but  few  half- 
hours  in  my  life  in  meditations  more  sweet  and  yet  more 
bitter.  They  need  not  be  deUiled.  Whoever  loves  virtue 
and  his  country,  and  has  done  any  thing  less  than  his  duty, 
or  whoever  feels  like  a  son  of  Washington,  however  humble 
he  nay  be,  and  apprehends  how  mucli  reason  tliere  is  to 


h 


! 


}'': 


t! 


14 


STEAMBOAT  CONVERSATION. 


mourn  over  the  loss  of  his  spirit  and  his  principles,  may 
well  conceive  them  if  he  will  imagine  himself  placed  alone 
in  a  solitary  spot  near  the  ashes  of  the  dead.  At  thp  ssme 
lime,  to  a  man  of  an  opposite  cHaracler  any  description 
would  of  course  be  lost.  I  regretted  here  the  want  of  some 
truly  appropriate  national  music,  when  I  found  myself 
breathing  a  very  soft  and  plaintive  Scotch  lament.  Of  all 
the  poetry  I  have  seen  written  on  Mount  Vernon,  none 
strikes  my  ear  with  so  much  simplicity  and  sweetness, 
mingled  with  so  much  elevation,  as  the  lines  of  Brainerd. 

There  is  something  much  more  congenial  to  my  mind 
in  the  simple  and  indeed  humble  depository  of  the  ashes  of 
Washington  than  in  the  most  splendid  monuments  of  Italy 
or  even  of  Egypt.  Where  there  is  no  attempt  made  to 
captivate  the  eye,  the  mind  is  left  at  perfect  freedom  to  form 
her  own  conceptions ;  and  it  is  no  disrespect  to  the  greatest 
artist  to  say,  that  a  refined  and  virtuous  fancy  may  tran- 
scend in  its  conceptions  the  work  of  any  human  hands.  I 
have  no  objection  to  the  erection  of  monuments  to  Wash- 
ington ;  nay,  I  hope  the  day  may  come  when  every  city, 
town,  and  village  in  the  Union  may  possess  one  of  some 
sort,  constructed  in  the  purest  taste :  but  I  feel  that  any 
fabric  of  art  in  this  place  would  be  only  an  impediment  to 
the  mind,  which,  if  left  to  itself,  will  create  the  noblest  con- 
ceptions out  of  nothing. 

Surely  enough  is  not  made  of  the  memory  of  Washington 
in  our  country,  when  we  rellect  what  has  been  and  now  is 
the  influence  of  his  name  in  the  world.  His  great  example 
of  disinterestrdiicss  has  done  more  for  the  human  race  than 
we  can  possibly  ascertain ;  and  is  likely  to  produce  still 
greater  eflects.  His  birtliday  should  be  observed  by  our 
children  as  a  day  of  becoming  joy ;  and  our  schools  should 
pour  out  their  young  inhabitants  to  hear  his  virtues  recounted 
and  to  sing  songs  in  his  praise. 

I  returned  from  Alexandria  to  Washington  in  the  steamboat. 
There  were  several  Virginians  on  board,  of  different  classes 
and  characters,  who  engaged  in  conversation  on  slavery. 
This  subject,  which  was  longregarded  as  a  prohibited  one,  and 
by  general  consent  excluded  from  conversation  in  all  societies, 
has  become  the  most  general  topic  throughout  the  state, .;? 


is  well  ki 

serious  b 

under  thi 

which  its 

like  a  vai 

blood.     I 

arouse  m 

little  mor 

and  is  ge 

interrupt 

cracking 

tling  amo 

sible  sere 

it  is  no  w 

things  ge 

more  the; 

masons,  c 

works  for 

My  Vii 

about  to  s 

specting  ; 

voyage. 

plan,  prim 

of  their  re 

word, — it 

in  a  strai 

felt  able  ti 

were  the  t 

tent.     No 

,  there  is  d; 

yet  no  dii 

appears  to 

A  change 

shall  do  ti 

labour  see 

from  the  ] 

as  this  ai 

again,  as  ( 

My  frie 


STEAMBOAT  CONVERSATION. 


15 


inciples,  may 
'  placed  alone 

At  thp  Si  me 
ly  descripliou 
want  of  some 
found  myself 
nent.  Of  all 
Vernon,  none 
id  sweetness, 
)f  Brainerd. 
I  to  my  mind 
f  the  ashes  of 
nents  of  Italy 
mpt  made  to 
eedom  to  form 
to  the  greatest 
ncy  may  tran- 
oan  hands.  I 
ents  to  Wash- 
en  every  city, 
i  one  of  some 

feel  that  any 
impediment  to 
le  noblest  con- 

of  Washington 
:en  and  now  is 
great  example 
man  race  than 
»  produce  still 
served  by  our 
schools  sliould 
rtues  recounted 

I  the  steamboat, 
lifferent  classes 
ion  on  slavery, 
hibited  one,  and 
i  in  all  societies, 
ut  the  state,  <;? 


is  well  known,  since  the  legislature  have  taken  it  up  as  a 
serious  business  of  deliberation.  Virginia  has  long  suflered 
under  this  incubus ;  and  from  a  mere  love  of  that  inaction 
which  its  oppressive  weight  has  produced,  has  allowed  it, 
like  a  vampire,  to  overshadow  her  eyes,  and  to  suck  her 
blood.  Nothing  but  a  severe  shock  can  ever  efTectually 
arouse  men  from  such  a  I-^thargy.  "  A  little  more  sleep,  a 
little  more  slumber,"  is  a  tune  maiked  '' Dacapo  ad  libitum,'" 
and  is  generally  sung  over  and  over  for  life.  Nothing  can 
interrupt  it  but  a  louder  note  on  some  diflerent  key.  The 
cracking  of  the  foundation  of  one's  house,  however,  a  rat- 
tling among  the  clapboards  and  shingles,  and  an  insuppres- 
sible  scream  of  hunger  from  within,  are  serious  sounds  ;  and 
it  is  no  wonder  that  men  begin  to  look  about  and  talk  when 
things  get  to  such  a  pass.  The  further  they  examine,  the 
more  they  perceive  that  time  and  the  elements  are  poor 
masons,  carpenters,  and  providers  ;  and  that  Hercules  never 
works  for  a  man  who  keeps  his  hands  in  his  pockets. 

My  Virginia  fellow-passengers  seemed  to  me  like  boys 
about  to  sign  their  indentures  to  a  new  trade,  or  seamen  in- 
specting a  ship  which  they  are  invited  to  man  for  a  long 
voyage.     They  had  many  ohjeclions  to  make  against  the 
plan,  principles,  and  arrangements  proposed,  but  the  reasons 
of  their  reluctance  all  seemed  to  be  comprehended  in  one 
word,— it  looked  too  much  like  hard  work.     Things  were 
in  a  strange  state  in  Virginia  two  years  ago,  when  nobody 
felt  able  to  speak  of  the  most  obvious  facts,  though  they 
were  the  causes  of  general  suffering  and  of  private  discon- 
tent.    Now  they  have  got  upon  the  opposite  extreme,  and 
,  there  is  danger  only  of  talking  too  much.     They  have  as 
yet  no  distinct,  feasible  plan  proposed;  and  the  question 
appears  to  turn  on  a  general  hinge  :  a  change  or  no  change  ? 
A  change  they  wish ;  but  then,  the  first  thought  is,  who 
shall  do  the  work  ?     The  apprehension  of  being  obliged  to 
labour  seemed  to  keep  my  fellow-passengers  at  arm's  length 
from  the  point.     It  drove  them  back  to  the  statu  quo,  but 
as  this  affords  no  resting-place,  they  came  jumping  back 
again,  as  on  a  recoiling  spring,  to  the  necessity  of  a  change. 
My  friends,  the  hardship  of  work  is  not  so  great  as  you 


8TBAMB0AT  CONVERSATION. 

auDoose      Give  up  this  notion;  it  has  almost  ruined  you, 
and  w  U  ruin  you  totally  if  you  hug  it  a  little  longer.    How 
do  we  do  at  the  North!     How  do  they  do  at  the  WestT 
Thrspade  and  plough  are  not  instruments  of  torture :  their 
rough  handles  ha^ve  the  same  drug  secreted  in  them  which  wa, 
concealed  in  the  racket  of  the  Persian  physicjan.  and  which 
with  exercise  exhaled  its  essence  and  restored  the  health  of 
the  monarch.     Us  influence  also  extends  to  the  mtellectud 
and  moral  man.     Suppose  you  had  n.ade  an  experiment  in 
one  of  your  spacious  and  fertile  count.es  thirty  years  ago, 
Z  your  sons^o  the  field,  and  trained  them  to  the  labours 
whi/h  consolidate  and  invigorate  the  frame     These  labours 
Tthe  same  lime,  foster  a  taste  for  harmless,  cheap,  and 
Jatunil  enjoyments.     How  would  your  fields  have  looked! 
Wha  wouVhave  been  their  products  under  such  improved 
sy  tems  as  you  and  your  sons  might  have  introduced  T     I 
ZZl  see  the  little  neighbourhoods  which  would  have  been 
forme  1,  many  a  field  not  waste  smiling  with  verdure  books 
a,ds  hods  multiplied,  manufactories  built  on  the  streams 
gSod  tdl  stretclTing  hither  and  thither,  l-PP-ss  secured 
bv  intelligence,  virtue,   and   prosperity.     Your   eyes   are 
rest  es    your  brows  are  clouded.     There  is  noth.ng  niore 
Uke  y  ;  Sove  such  symptoms  than  the  sight  of  our  land 
we  I  ti  Ud  by  our  own  hands,  the  sounds  of  peace  and  joy 
Tn  our  habuJtions;  and  what  idle  man  ever  kn^^^^^'^^'"  %^ . 
U  has  been  bitterly  comphiined  of  in  \'.rguua  that  useful 
labour  is  despised;  and  no  doubt  the  statesmen  who  would 
ga  n  true  honour  should  take  Cincinnatus  lor  tl'ejr  model. 
1  most  intelligent  and  independent  step  has  been  taken  by 
one  of  the  literary  institutions  of  the  state,  the  results  of 
which  must  be  useful.     Manual  labour  has  been  connected 
w      study  at  Hampden  S.dney  College;  and  although  the 
rposition  to  it  wis  at  first  very  general  and  power  u,  a 
Sable  change  in  the  opinion  of  the  >^-  J"^  g-    '- 
already  commenced;  and  no  one  who  looks  at  the  Mate  of 
thigs  can  doubt  that  this  is  one  of  the  most  wise  and  prom- 
snf  steps  which  could  have  been  taken  to  repair  the  wastes 
Sg'enerLns,  and  to  remould  the  habiu  and  coadiuoaof 
(he  people. 


WashingU 
bition — 
road. 

I  NE^E 

miscalcul 
men,  in  r 
important 
every  eyi 
Broad  av 
the  centr 
impassab 
like  the 
days  of  I 
at  the  pr 
Bteril  reg 
to  be  der 
the  grow 
more  ex[ 
tropolis ; 
tended  o 
capitals, 
tiny ;  an 
trigues. 
and  brill 
Washing 
exposed 
alike  im{ 
many  ne 
terests  9 
When  y( 
the  same 
same  tw 


Dst  ruined  you, 
!  longer.    How 

at  the  WeslT 
f  torture:  their 
them  which  was 
cian,  and  which 
3d  the  health  of 

the  intellectual 
a  experiment  in 
hirty  years  ago, 
n  to  the  labours 

These  labours, 
3S8,  cheap,  and 
Js  have  looked  ? 
r  such  improved 

introduced  1  I 
vould  have  been 
h  verdure,  books 
on  the  streams, 
ippiness  secured 
Your   eyes   are 

is  nothing  more 
ight  of  our  land 
f  peace  and  joy 
•  knew  them  ? 
rginia  that  useful 
smen  who  would 

for  their  model. 
s  been  taken  by 
e,  the  results  of 
i  been  connected 
md  although  the 

and  powerful,  a 
rise  and  good  has 
ks  at  the  state  of 
3t  wise  and  prom- 
repair  the  wastes 
;  and  condition  of 


CHAPTER  n. 

Washington — Advnntages  of  Small  Capitals — Salutary  Hints  to  Am- 
bition— Foreigner  disappointed — More  Reflections — Vines — Rail- 
road. 

I  NE%ER  visit  Washington  without  being  reminded  of  the 
miscalculations  which  were  made  by  some  of  our  wisest 
men,  in  relation  to  the  growth  of  the  city  in  population  and 
importance.  The  magnificence  of  the  plan  is  evident  to 
every  eye,  and  so  is  the  total  want  of  power  to  complete  it. 
Broad  avenues,  named  after  tiie  states,  stretch  indeed  from 
the  centre  towards  various  points ;  but  some  of  them  are 
impassable,  and  others  lead  to  nothing  worth  seeing.  Un- 
like the  great  roads  which  met  in  the  Roman  forum  in  the 
days  of  Roman  greatness,  they  are  more  like  some  of  tlieni 
at  the  present  day,  which  conduct  only  to  a  deserted  and 
steril  region  in  the  vicinity.  Still  there  is  one  gratification 
to  be  derived  from  the  public  disappointment  in  relation  to 
the  growth  of  the  federal  city :  the  intrigues  of  a  court  are 
more  exposed  to  view  than  they  could  be  in  a  large  me- 
tropolis ;  and  the  shades  of  a  great  population  are  not  ex- 
tended over  them  for  their  concealment.  In  European 
capitals,  public  men  are  much  less  exposed  to  public  scru- 
tiny ;  and  great  facilities  are  enjoyed  for  all  sorts  of  in- 
trigues. Besides,  every  thing  connected  with  the  grandeur 
and  brilliancy  of  power  loses  much  of  its  importance  in 
Washington,  because  so  much  of  the  interior  of  things  is 
exposed  to  view.  In  this  city  visiters  and  inhabitants  are 
alike  impressed  with  what  they  see.  Every  year  presents 
many  new  faces  in  the  Houses  of  Congress,  where  new  in- 
terests are  maintained  with  the  same  ardour  as  before. 
When  you  call  on  a  friend,  you  are  perhaps  introduced  into 
the  same  chamber  you  were  in  the  last  winter,  with  the 
same  two  beds  in  the  corners,  the  same  display  of  gilt- 


r"-— ^ 


18 


crry  of  washinoton. 


edged  paper,  aad  sealing-wax  upon  the  table,  and  the  same 
•ymptoms  around  you  of  public  business  and  p-^rtisan-spirit, 
while  you  reflect  that  the  former  occupant  of  the  room  and 
of  one  of  the  beds,  restored  again  to  private  life,  is  five 
hundred  or  a  thousand  miles  off,  divested  of  his  feathers, 
and  a  fortunate  man  if  not  the  worse  for  his  campaign  at 
the  seat  of  government. 

In  the  streets  of  Washington  no  warning  seems  omitted 
from  which  a  spectator  might  learn  patriotism,  and  a  states- 
man honesty.     The  stage-horses  wheel  as  gracefully  to  re- 
ceive the  unsuccessful  applicant  for  office  as  to  bring  the 
court-favourite  to  his  lodgings ;  and  the  minister's  furniture 
shines  as  bright  at  the  auctioneer's  door  on  the  day  of  his 
taking  leave  as  it  did  on  the  evening  of  his  first  drawing- 
room.    Oh  the  silent  lessons  I  have  read  at  the  auctioneer's 
on  ambition  and  her  reward,  the  boasted  purity  of  a  popular 
government,  the  value  and  splendour  of  real  virtue,  and  the 
contemptible  character   of  her   counterfeits!      Indeed,  so 
severe  are  some  of  the  sarcasms  thus  practically  presented, 
that  I  was  once  ready  to  exclaim  against  the  punishment 
inflicted  on  a  late  favourite  of  fortune,  then  newly  sunk  in 
disgrace,  as  greater  than  he  could  bear. 

The  carpets  on  which  his  flatterers  had  stood,  with  smiles 
and  compliments  for  him,  were  now  cheapened  on  account 
of  the  dust  of  courtiers'  feet,  and  the  peculiar  obsequious- 
ness with  which  the  surface  had  been  scraped  at  audiences 
and  levees.     But,  ah !  the  bowls  and  dishes,  the  cups  and 
glasses  out  of  which  so  many  simpering  mouths  had  been 
80  lately  fed,  and  now  scarcely  dry  from  the  unavailing 
banquets :  what  emblems  were  they  of  the  hollowness  and 
britileness  of  the  station  they  had  recently  embellished ! 
The  minion  had  before  possessed  my  secret  contempt  and 
abhorrence ;  but  I  could  now  have  saved  him  the  pangs  of 
such  a  show.     And  yet  such  things  are  salutary.     If  they 
are  able  to  affect  others  as  they  affected  me,  a  walk  through 
Pennsylvania  Avenue  might  cure  the  most  ambitious  and 
corrupt  of  statesmen  and  courtiers. 

Some  of  the  inhabitants  of  Washington  have  had  intelli- 
gence and  observation  enoagh  to  afibrd  much  interesting  in- 


formation ii 
What  we  re 
little  more  < 
deed,  perha 
to  form  unl 
Congress,  v 
to  influence 
tries  to  disci 
it  would  be 
by  them  wi 
often  form  c 
ness.  It  is 
influences  s 
tention  of  i 
have  often 
overawe  or 
To  an  Ami 
the  absence 
features  in  ^ 
to  guard  gal 
ception  of 
capitol.  T 
tion  is  also 
last  war  wil 
confessed,  a 
he  had  cntei 
and  deliver 
tomac,  whil 
house.  As 
prevent  an  ; 
such  a  plai 
pose,  undei 
Though  dai 
neglect  to 
than  to  hav 
to  become  fi 
From  some 
foreigners,  ] 
large  propo 


"T 


ABSENCE  or  SOLDIERS. 


19 


table,  and  the  same 
and  p-^rtisan-spirit, 
int  of  the  room  and 
Jrivate  life,  is  five 
ed  of  his  feathers, 
T  his  campaign  at 

jing  seems  omitted 
otism,  and  a  states- 
as  gracefully  to  re- 
tie  as  to  bring  the 
minister's  furniture 
•  on  the  day  of  his 
r  his  first  drawing- 
at  the  auctioneer's 
purity  of  a  popular 
eal  virtue,  and  the 
"eits !  Indeed,  so 
ictically  presented, 
St  the  punishment 
len  newly  sunk  in 

stood,  with  smiles 
pened  on  account 
iculiar  obsequious- 
'aped  at  audiences 
ihes,  the  cups  and 
mouths  had  been 
m  the  unavailing 
le  hollowness  and 
itly  embellished ! 
ret  contempt  and 

him  the  pangs  of 
alutary.  If  they 
e,  a  walk  through 
>st  ambitious  and 

have  had  intelli- 
ch  interesting  in- 


formation  in  relation  to  public  men  and  national  affairs. 
What  we  receive  through  the  newspapers,  or  other  channels 
little  more  correct,  passes  under  their  own  eyes.  And  in- 
deed, perhaps,  no  part  of  the  country  is  left  so  much  alone 
to  form  unbiased  opinions.  While  speeches  are  made  in 
Congress,  written  out,  amended,  and  published  by  thousands 
to  influence  some  county,  state,  or  number  of  slates,  nobody 
tries  to  discolour  things  to  the  Washingtonians,  knowing  that 
it  would  be  in  vain.  Every  thing  is  tiierefore  left  to  be  seen 
by  them  without  disguise ;  and  the  consequence  is,  they 
often  form  correct  opinions,  and  speak  with  becoming  frank- 
ness. It  is  gratifying  also  to  reflect,  that  local  interests  and 
influences  are  not  likely  to  engross  and  control  the  at- 
tention of  the  government  in  so  great  a  degree  as  they 
have  often  done  in  large  cities ;  and  there  is  no  mob  to 
overawe  or  even  to  tlireaten  their  freedom. 

To  an  American  who  has  seen  any  of  the  capitals  of  Europe, 
the  absence  of  military  display  is  one  of  the  most  agreeable 
features  in  view,  wlicrcver  he  turns.  There  is  not  a  soldier 
to  guard  gates  or  doors  in  Washington,  with  the  single  ex- 
ception of  those  at  the  navy-yard,  a  mile  or  more  from  the 
capitol.  The  total  want  of  every  sign  of  military  pre  para- 
tion  is  also  very  accordant  with  one's  feelings.  After  the 
last  war  with  England,  a  felon  imprisoned  for  some  crime 
confessed,  as  I  recollect,  that  during  his  career  of  iniquity 
he  had  entered  into  a  conspiracy  to  seize  President  Madison, 
and  deliver  him  to  the  British  ships  then  lying  in  the  Po- 
tomac, while  he  was  a  sentinel  to  guard  the  President's 
house.  As  there  was  not  even  a  wall  of  sufficient  height  to 
prevent  an  approach  to  the  doors,  and  no  other  obstacle, 
such  a  plan  migiit  have  been  easily  accomplished,  I  sup- 
pose, under  favourable  circumstances,  by  mere  surprise. 
Though  danger  was  thus  in  one  instance  incurred  by  the 
neglect  to  take  military  precautions,  how  much  better  it  is 
than  to  have  the  display  of  paid  soldiers  at  every  turn,  and 
to  become  familiar  with  the  music  and  the  weapons  of  death ! 
From  some  acquaintance  with  the  feelings  and  habits  of 
foreigners,  I  can  say  with  great  confidence,  that  probably  a 
large  proportion  of  the  intelligent  men  of  Europe  would 


h 


to 


ADVANTA0E8  OF  SMALL  CAPITALS. 


learn  with  surprise  that  there  is  not  a  soldier  on  guard  in  the 
capital  of  the  United  States,  even  during  tlie  sessions  of 
Congress,  although  the  familiar  furt  excites  not  a  thought  in 
our  minds. 

I  have  heard  a  good  deal  said  about  schools  of  eloquence, 
the  rhetorical  talents  of  certain  portions  of  the  country,  and 
native  genius ;  but  I  found  true  in  Washington  what  I  be- 
lieved in  the  French  Ciiambers  and  the  British  Houses  of 
Lords  and  Commons :  that  many  men  who  suppose  them- 
selves great  orators  are  deficient  in  some  or  all  of  the  indis- 
pensable qualifications  ;  and  that  not  a  few  real  orators  are 
unsuspicious  of  their  talents,  or  unconscious  of  what  they 
consist  in.  With  our  early  training  at  school  and  college, 
we  are  very  apt  to  suppose  that  line  language  must  approach 
the  Latin  standard,  either  in  words  or  arrangement ;  and 
after  we  have  lived  long  enough  to  correct  this  mistake,  we 
are  some  time  in  settling  the  great  fact,  that  eloquence  can 
never  consist  in  useless  words.  Yet  nothing  is  more  true  : 
and  although  we  often  find  high  encomiums  passed  by  tho 
newspapers  on  particular  speeches,  could  we  have  witnessed 
their  delivery,  we  should  generally  have  found  them  falling 
blunt  and  dead  upon  the  closed  ears  of  a  thin  and  sleepy 
audience. 

With  abundant  materials  for  thought,  I  took  my  seat  in  a 
stage-coach  ibr  Baltimore,  and  revived  many  a  recollection 
of  strolls  through  European  palaces  and  prisons,  and  events 
in  the  history  of  courts.  Washington,  tliought  I,  is  a  me- 
tropolis of  nuisances,  a  capital  of  intrigues,  and  ever  must 
be.  But  yet  how  difl'erent  it  is,  in  some  respects,  from  the 
seat  of  an  European  court !  The  profession  of  a  courtier 
requires  a  long  apprenticeship,  which  it  is  almost  impossible 
to  obtain  in  this  country,  among  the  frequent  changes  to 
which  our  system  subjects  us.  Though  tlie  growth  of  bad 
men  may  be  rapid,  their  career  must  generally  be  short. 
But  what  results  might  not  be  produced,  if  such  characters 
as  may  be  conceived,  were  allowed  to  prosecute  their  opera- 
tions for  ten,  twenty,  or  thirty  years,  witiiout  fear  of  inter- 
ruption, and  under  the  shelter  of  an  unchanging  dynasty! 


Who  wou 

States,  as 

So  prepo 

madman. 

trained  in 

be  gratifii 

formance ; 

may  be  m 

even  conj( 

one  preter 

or  why. 

looked  on 

ments,  an( 

horses  mi 

among  the 

changes  ii 

Benefit 

teror  two 

with  men  s 

distant  stai 

principles, 

from  differ 

a  spirit  ol 

parts  of  tf 

observe  th 

measures 

time  they  i 

states  whi 

minds  sucl 

rience.     If 

sincere  or 

of  palriotis 

with  intclli 

try  is  regai 

liked  by  ot 

There  we 

who  had  a 

had  becom 

of  the  city, 


■""^i-. 


/ 


A  FBKNCriMAN'a  OPINION  OF  WASICINOTON. 


21 


on  guard  in  the 
tlie  sessions  of 
lot  a  thought  in 

Is  of  eloquence, 
he  country,  and 
Tton  what  I  be- 
itish  Houses  of 

suppose  them- 
ill  of  the  indis- 
real  orators  are 
!  of  what  they 
)ol  and  college, 

must  approach 
angeincnt ;  and 
lis  mistake,  wc 
t  eloquence  can 
Q[  is  more  true  : 
i  passed  by  the 
have  witnessed 
nd  them  falling 
thin  and  sleepy 

jk  my  seat  in  a 
y  a  recollection 
ons,  and  events 
ght  I,  is  a  me- 
,  and  ever  must 
ipects,  from  the 
»n  of  a  courtier 
nost  impossible 
ent  changes  to 
growth  of  bad 
;rally  be  short, 
iuch  characters 
ute  their  opera- 
t  fear  of  inter- 
nging  dynasty? 


Who  would  ever  think  of  studying  diplomacy  in  the  United 
States,  as  it  is  regularly  studied  in  some  European  couniries? 
So  preposterous  a  thing  would  be  undertaken  only  by  a 
madman.  On  the  other  side  of  the  Atlantic,  a  man  well 
trained  in  the  forms  of  inlet  national  business  may  ex|»ect  to 
be  gratified  with  the  substantial  rewards  awaiting  its  per- 
formance :  but  here,  selections  of  ministers,  secretaries,  <fec. 
may  be  made  next  year  on  grounds  which  cannot  now  be 
even  conjectured :  and  as  for  five  or  ten  years  hence,  no 
one  pretends  to  foresee  who  may  be  in  a  foreign  embassy, 
or  why.  The  only  offices  in  Washington  which  ciin  be 
looked  on  as  permanent,  are  a  few  clerkships  in  the  depart- 
ments, and  the  keepers  of  certain  hotels ;  the  very  stage- 
horses  must  stare  at  the  new  faces  they  annually  behold 
among  the  legislators,  and  wonder  why  there  are  so  frequent 
changes  in  that  linr. 

Benefit  may  be  derived  by  some  men  from  spending  a  win- 
ter or  two  at  Washington.— They  extend  their  acquaintance 
with  men  and  things,  return  with  new  impressions  concerning 
distant  states,  more  enlarged  views  of  national  interests  and 
principles,  and  attachments  contracted  with  estimable  friends 
from  different  districts.  When  questions  arise  which  awaken 
a  spirit  of  division  among  representatives  from  differenf 
parts  of  the  Union,  they  see  whence  those  feelings  arise, 
observe  their  tendency,  reflect  on  the  danger,  and  devise 
measures  for  their  prevention  or  removal.  At  the  same 
time  they  raise  in  the  opinion  of  others  an  estimation  of  the 
states  which  they  worthily  represent,  and  excite  in  their 
minds  such  reflections  and  feelings  as  they  themselves  expe- 
rience. If  they  have  any  intercourse  with  men  of  a  less 
sincere  or  of  a  really  vicious  character,  their  admiration 
of  patriotism  and  virtue  is  increased ;  and  if  they  converse 
with  intelligent  foreigners,  they  learn  how  highly  our  coun- 
try is  regarded  in  Europe  by  one  class,  and  how  it  is  dis- 
liked by  others. 

There  was  an  elegant  young  Frenchman  in  the  stage-coach, 
who  had  arrived  in  Washington  only  the  day  before,  but 
had  become  so  much  ennuye,  as  he  declared,  at  the  sight 
of  the  city,  that  he  had  hurried  away  from  it,  intending  never 

3 


22 


VINKS. 


•If! 


to  Teturn.  Now,  why  was  he  disappointed  ?  Washington 
certainly  must  be  a  very  different  oily  from  what  he  l»id  ex- 
pected to  find  it.  The  seat  ol'  government,  as  such  alone  U 
appears,  hud  not  attracted  him  ;  for  (ingress,  the  Supreme 
Court,  the  President,  and  all  the  machinery  and  accom4>ani- 
menls  of  it  were  there  to  be  seen,  but  these  he  had  not 
visited.  He  had  missed  the  crowds  and  frivolities  of  Paris, 
—I  will  not  say  the  vices ;  and  see  how  much  we  gain  in 
having  our  capital  in  so  great  a  degree  as  it  is,  divested  of 
these.  In  Europe,  courts  corrupt  capitals,  and  capitals 
-courts  and  kingdoms. 

Mr.  Adlum  has  his  vineyard  near  Baltimore,  where  he 
has  had  great  success  in  raising  grapes,  and  even  in  making 
wine.     How    unaccountable  it   seems,   that   with   all   the 
sagacity  of  our  countrymen,  the  abundance  of  indigenous 
vines,  and  the  ease  willi  which  they,  as  well  as  some  foreign 
species  may  be  cultivated,  this  branch  of  culture  should  have 
been  so  little  attended  to.     The  fruit  is  highly  esteemed  by 
H8,  vast  quantities  of  w4ne  are  imported,  and  abundance  of 
miserable  and  pernicious  drinks  is  used  by  persons  who 
might  be  more  cheaply  or  healthfully  furnished  with  whole- 
some weak  wine,  were  the  proper  course  pursued  to  make 
it.     The  vine  is  probably  more  generally  found  in  our  dif- 
ferent states,  and  more  indiiferent  to  the  varieties  of  soil, 
than  any  other  plant  we  have.     The  treatment  and  culture 
of  it  are  also  remarkably  cheap.     A  vineyard  of  twenty 
acres  may  be  tended  by  two  men  employed  only  a  part  of 
the  year ;  and  the  value  of  the  harvest  will  be  great  after 
the  second  year.     At  the  same  time,  the  soil  best  adapted 
to  the  vine  is  sandy  and  pebbly,  such  as  is  to  a  great  extent 
now  lying  waste  in  the  United  States,  as  of  little  or  no 
value. 

Many  vines  are  seen  in  different  parts  of  the  country, 
chiefly  trained  for  ornament  and  shade,  but  how  few  per- 
sons there  are  who  attend  to  the  pruning  or  clipping  of 
them  at  the  proper  season :  operations  which  are  indispen- 
sable to  the  production  of  a  good  crop,  and  the  neglect  of 
which,  for  a  single  season  in  Europe,  would  cause  an  im- 
mense loss. 


There 
the  Baltii 
ington  re 
former  c 
valley  on 
and  a  roi 
far  beneii 
Potomac, 
constantl 
Mills  ma 


Balti 

and  ente 

in  Amer 

large  st( 

best  in  t 

busy  pe 

open  sqi 

in  the  ri 

towards 

signed  i 

inhabita 

plish  gr 

main-sp 

which  a 

quarter 

Indian  < 

of  trave 

quenily 

door. 

v.ery  gi 


I    ^ 


BALTIMORE. 


28 


}  ?  Washington 
what  he  hid  ex- 
as  such  alone  it 
IS8,  the  Supreme 
and  accoin4>ani- 
liese  he  had  not 
volities  of  Paris, 
much  we  gain  in 
it  is,  divested  of 
lis,  and  capitals 

more,  where  he 
d  even  in  making 
lat   with   all   the 
CO  of  indigenous 
1  as  some  foreign 
ture  should  have 
rhly  esteemed  by 
md  abundance  of 
by  persons  who 
shed  with  whole- 
pursued  to  make 
found  in  our  dif- 
varieties  of  soil, 
tment  and  culture 
leyard  of  twenty 
3d  only  a  part  of 
will  be  great  after 
soil  best  adapted 
to  a  great  extent 
as  of  little  or  no 

;s  of  the  country, 
but  how  few  per- 
ng  or  clipping  of 
hich  are  indispen- 
nd  the  neglect  of 
uld  cause  an  im> 


There  are  several  fine  sights  piesented  on  that  part  of 
the  Baltimore  and  Ohio  railroad  which  lies  along  the  Wash- 
ington road  for  three  or  four  miles  before  we  reach  the 
former  city.  In  one  place  it  passes  a  liroiid  and  deep 
valley  on  the  top  of  a  great  embankment,  wliile  a  stream 
and  a  rountry-road  cross  its  route  through  arched  openings 
far  beneath.  It  is  travelled  to  the  "  Point  of  Kocks,"  on  the 
Potomac.  The  scenery  to  Fredericiitown,  60  miles,  is 
constantly  varying,  and  often  wild  and  romantic.  Ellicoit's 
Mills  may  be  compared  with  Little  Falld  on  the  Erie  Canal. 


CHAPTER  III. 

Baltimore — Route  to  Philadelphia — Railroads. 

Baltimore  has  as  much  the  appearance  of  prosperity 
and  enterprise,  in  proportion  to  its  size,  as  perhaps  any  city 
in  America.     The  broad  and  straight  streets  are  lined  with, 
large  stores  and  dwellings,  some  of  which  rival  in  taste  the 
best  in  the  country,  and  are  thronged  with  well-dressed  and 
busy  people.     The  monuments,  rising  high  in  the  air  from 
open  squares,  give  an  imposing  eflect ;  while  the  shipping 
in  the  river  and  harbour,  and  the  noble  railroads  extending 
towards  Susquehaima  and  the  Ohio,  with  which  it  is  de- 
signed to  open  a  direct  communication,  indicate  that  the 
inhabitants  have  the  intelligence  and  the  ability  to  accom*. 
plish  great  things,  to  promote  that  commerce  which  is  the 
main-spring   of  the   city.     The  number  of  stage-coaches, 
which  arrive  and  depart  is  truly  astonishing.     Scarcely  a 
quarter  of  an  hour  passed,  when  I  was  so  situated  at  the 
Indian  Queen  as  to  observe  the  street,  without  the  alighting 
of  travellers  or  the  strapping  on  of  more  baggage ;  and  fre- 
quently several  stage-coaches  stood    at   once  before  the 
door.     The  travelling  by  steamboats  and  railroads  is  also 
v,ery  gceat  i  so  that  when  navig.ation  is  open  and  Congress. 


in^ 


94 


VALUE  or  I'lrBLK-  INTKLLIUKNCB. 


m 


4  Wl 


is  iti  sesNion,  the  place  is  one  of  our  frrcntest  tlioruiighfarei. 
Thu  miiliitudes  coiniii)(  rroni  the  W'-stt  irnprctts  uiic  with  the 
riipid  increase  of  population  in  those  flourishing  regions. 

liiiltitnore  has  few  nioniinients  to  piililic  inlelligence  worthy 
of  tlie  name.  There  are  few  olijects  which  I  have  seen,  that 
convey  the  idea,  so  gratifying  to  a  stranger  anil  so  honour* 
able  to  the  citizens,  that  in  thin  pla(!e  knowledge  is  duly 
appreciated,  and  useful  learning  in  shared  liy  all  classes.  I 
speak  of  monuments  as  the  Europeans  use  the  word  :  ihiit 
is,  as  public  edifices. 

'I'lic  University  can  scarcely  be  said  to  exist  in  any 
branch  but  the  medical  dcparlmcnt,  which  lius  above  one 
huntlred  students.  The  Alhcnivum  has  -12,000  volumes  in 
its  library.  Public  education  is  improving  rapidly.  Four 
fine  schoolhouscs  have  been  recently  erected.  No.  4,  in 
Hanover-street,  is  a  beautiful  specimen  of  archiieciure, 
being  constructed  of  whitish  granite,  with  a  tasteful  fagade. 
These  buildings  are  much  more  ornamental  than  the  public 
schools  of  New- York.  May  the  interior  prove  but  as  use- 
ful, and  Baltimore  will  have  abundant  reason  to  value  her 
new  acquisitions. 

There  are  persons  in  every  considerable  community 
among  us,  whose  real  pecuniary  interest  would  be  consulted 
by  the  cultivation  of  knowledge ;  and  from  these  some  ex- 
ertions might  be  expected,  at  least,  on  the  ground  of  sound 
mercantile  speculation.  Although  I  would  wish  to  see 
loftier  motives  than  this  brought  into  operation  on  such  a 
subject,  my  chief  desire  is  that  the  important  benefits  may 
be  at  any  rate  enjoyed.  Teachers  and  booksellers  are 
directly  interested  in  the  case ;  and  one  would  suppose  that 
men  of  real  literary  or  scientific  attainments  voulii  wish  to 
have  their  merits  judged  of  by  an  enlightened  public,  or  seek 
to  cultivate  knowledge  among  those  around  them,  that  they 
might  enjoy  the  pleasure  of  participating.  One  would  think, 
too,  that  as  public  peace  and  private  security  can  be  enjoyed 
only  amid  good  order,  intelligence,  and  morality,  every  indi- 
vidual would  feel  the  elevation  of  public  intelligence  to  be 
a  matter  of  personal  interest,  and  lend  his  voice  and  counte- 
nanee,  if  not  his  purse,  to  its  aid.  And  as  our  females  are 
generally  more  dependant  than  men  upon  the  state  of  society 


nround  th 
of  intellei 
occasion  1 
its  favour, 
extent,  w 
noble  wor 
in  posscN 
of  the  coil 
to  render 
for  comm 
money  be> 
dation  of 
mcmoralir 

There  i 
boat  from 
sides  is  p 
exhaustinji 
and  almos 
a  tree  sho 
and  there 
be  called  i 
moderate  i 
is  exceller 
remonstiMi 
the  contin 
to  slavery 
How  desh 
displayed 
recovered' 

One  of 
are  more 
aware.  / 
dead  of  ni 
with  8om( 
Some  half 
blows  whi 
such  infor 
ensued  b( 
neighboun 


STCAMnOAT  ADVEN-rrRC. 


29 


t  tlioruiighfarei. 
'US  uiic  with  the 
ling  regions, 
lligence  worthy 
hiive  seen,  that 
and  Nu  honour- 
wl»'«lge  is  tluly 
y  all  cluMsca.  I 
ttie  word :  that 

0  exist  in  any 
lius  above  one 

UOU  volumes  in 
rapidly.  Four 
led.  No.  4,  in 
if  architecture, 
tasteful  fagade. 
than  the  public 
ove  but  as  use- 
>n  to  value  her 

ble  community 
dd  be  consulted 
these  some  ex- 
round  of  sound 
i  wish  to  see 
tion  on  such  a 
nt  benefits  may 
)ookseller8  are 
Id  suppose  that 

1  v'ould  wish  to 
I  public,  or  seek 
them,  that  they 
ne  would  think, 
can  be  enjoyed 
lity,  every  indi- 
lelligence  to  be 
ice  and  counte- 
>ur  females  are 
state  of  society 


around  (hem,  and  not  less  capable  of  appreriatinf^  tha  value 
of  intellectual  refuirnient,  they  xhould  be  rraiiy  on  every 
occasion  to  throw  their  powerful  influence  into  the  scale  ia 
its  favour.  Strange  it  is,  that  amid  a  population  of  Nuch 
extent,  with  ho  much  prosperity  and  wcalili,  with  such 
noble  work.s  for  iniernal  eoiiimunication  as  arc  in  projrress, 
in  possession  of  every  facility,  i>nd  so  near  the  capital 
of  the  eouiilry,  there  hIiuuKI  be  any  delay  to  adopt  meiisurca 
to  render  this  city  a:»  much  diNiiuguihhed  (or  intelli>,'ence  as 
for  conimerciHl  enterprise.  One  half  the  ingenuity  and 
money  bestowed  u|)()a  a  single  structure,  might  lay  the  foim- 
dation  of  a  far  more  neeosNary  monument  ihan  that  com- 
memorating a  battle. 

There  is  but  little  to  interest  the  traveller  in  the  steam- 
boat from  Italtiniore  to  I'renchuiwn.  The  soil  on  bolhf 
sides  is  poor,  and  large  tracta  have  been  impoverished  by 
exhausting  crops  in  years  past,  and  consequently  neglected 
and  almost  deserted.  Not  a  building,  or  a  wall,  or  scarcely 
a  tree  shows  signs  of  even  local  or  individual  prosperity; 
and  there  is  nothing  which  approaches  nearer  to  what  may 
be  called  scenery,  than  rough  banks  and  some  bare  hills  of 
moderate  size.  In  some  places,  at  a  distance  in  tltc  interior, 
is  excellent  land ;  but  all  we  see  hereabouts  justifies  the 
remonstrances  made  in  the  legislature  of  Maryland  against 
the  continuance  of  the  present  state  of  things  with  regard 
to  slavery,  on  account  of  its  ruinous  influence  on  agriculture. 
How  desirable  it  is  that  the  necessary  energy  should  be 
displayed  on  such  a  waste  territory,  and  that  it  should  be 
recovered  to  fertility  and  usefulness. 

One  of  those  scenes  I  once  witnessed  here,  to  which  wa 
are  more  exposed  in  steamboats  than  we  are  generally 
aware.  An  insane  man,  who  was  a  passenger,  rose  in  the 
dead  of  night,  and  waked  us  from  sleep  in  the  darkness, 
with  some  of  the  most  shocking  screams  I  ever  heard. 
Some  half  dozen  men  were  roused  at  the  same  time  with 
blows  which  he  gave  them  at  a  venture  ;  and  to  judge  from 
such  information  as  was  to  be  obtained,  an  angry  scufJle 
ensued  between  them,  each  erroneously  supposing  hi» 
neighbours  the  aggressors.     A  light  brought  about  such  an 

3» 


h 


J  n 


V'il 


4  iii^i 
f  i.i'ii 


36 


RAILROADS. 


explanation  as  caused  a  cessation  of  hostilities^  but  it  was 
long  before  the  cause  of  the  confusion  was  discovercJ,  and 
still  longer  before  the  wily  maniac  was  confined  and  silenced. 
We  are  always  exoosed  to  a  panic  whenever  the  cabin  is 
left  at  night  without  a  light;  and  why  serious  accidents  do 
not  often  occur,  I  cannot  tell. 

One  of  the  happiest  effects  of  travelling  on  railroads  is 
the  freedom  it  gives  you  from  the  impertinence  and  imposi- 
tions of  porters,  cartmen,  et  omne  id  gtnus,  who  infest 
common  steamboat  landings.  A  long  and  solitary  row  of 
carriages  was  Sianding  on  the  shore  awaiting  our  arrival ; 
not  a  shout  was  heard,  scarcely  any  thing  was  seen  to  move 
except  the  locomotive,  and  the  arms  of  the  man  who 
caught  the  rope  thrown  from  our  boat.  The  passengers 
were  hied  off  along  a  ])lanked  walk  to  the  carriages  through 
one  gangway,  while  their  luggage,  which  had  already  been 
stowed  safely  away,  was  rolled  on  shore  by  another,  in 
two  light  wagons ;  and  almost  without  speaking  a  word,  the 
scats  were  occupied,  the  wagons  attached  behind,  the  half- 
locomotive  began  to  snort,  and  the  whole  retinue  was  on 
the  way  witti  as  little  ado  and  as  little  loss  of  time  as  I 
have  been  guilty  of  in  telling  the  story.  The  men  and  boys 
who  should,  or  rather  would  have  been  on  the  spot,  halloo- 
ing and  bawling,  but  for  the  railroad,  it  is  to  be  hoped  were 
somewhere  in  better  business.  1  wish  them  nothing  worse, 
while  I  wish  travellers  nothing  better  than  to  be  thus  rid  of 
them — whenever  they  can  as  well  do  without  them. 

I  had  one  very  pleasant  reflection  to  make  upon  the  route 
of  this  railroad,  viz.,  that  it  had  not  injured  a  single  valuable 
farm,  or  crossed  a  spot  of  good  soil. 

What  is  to  come  on  the  back  of  railroads  I  do  not  know, 
or  how  long  it  will  be  beft)re  they  are  to  be  in  their  turn 
superseded  by  some  more  economical  or  rapid  expedient,  as 
they  have  superseded  canals.  When  the  great  canal  was 
cut  across  this  very  cape  a  few  years  since,  competition  was 
as  little  apprehended,  even  in  the  transportation  of  pas- 
sengers, as  it  is  now  on  this  road.  And  in  a  country  where 
we  are  as  ready  to  act  on  a  new  suggestion,  and  to  push  a 
Dew  experiment  to  the  utmost,  as  we  are  to  embrace  a  new 


I 


THE  DELAWARE. 


27 


ties;  but  it  wa» 
(iiscovercJ,  and 
ed  and  silenced, 
er  the  cabin  is 
us  accidents  du 

7  on  railroads  is 
nee  and  imposi- 
nus,  who  infest 
solitary  row  of 
ting  our  arrival ; 
as  seen  to  move 
the  man  who 
The  passengers 
arriages  through 
lad  already  been 
!  by  another,  in 
iking  a  word,  the 
behind,  the  half- 
retinue  was  on 
iss  of  time  as  I 
le  men  and  boys 
the  spot,  halloo- 
o  be  hoped  were 
n  nothing  worse, 
to  be  thus  rid  of 
tut  them. 
ie  upon  the  route 
a  single  valuable 

i  I  do  not  know, 
be  in  their  turn 
pid  expedient,  as 
great  canal  was 

competition  was 
ortation  of  pas- 

a  country  where 
1,  and  to  push  a 
)  embrace  a  new 


opinion,  who  can  tell  what  new  plans,  what  new  enterprises 
are  before  us  ?  *^ 

Steamboats,   canals,   and    railroads,   in   their   different 
spheres,  have  done  so   much  to   promote  brotherly  love 
among  our  countrymen,  and  promise  so  much  more,  that  I 
look  upon  them  with  a  kind  of  affectionate  gratitude      We 
formerly  thought  that  the  vast  extent  of  our  territory  would 
preclude   that  intimate    intercourse  between  distant  parts 
whicii  IS  necessary  to  unity  of  feeling;  and  that  the  want 
ot   a   sense  of  mutual   dependance   would   foster  mutual 
estrangement:  but  iliese  improvements  have  eaten  up  miles 
and  degrees  of  space,  levelled  mountains,  contracted  plains, 
dried  up  rivers,  and  dr.nk  up  half  the  water  on  our  coasts. 
Ihey  have,  as  it  were,  made  a  present  of  a  good  pair  of 
seven-league  boots  to  every  son  and  daughter  of  the  United 
btates      And  what  gadding  on  a  large  scale  is  now  per- 
formed !     What  long  jumps  do  we  annually  make  from 
home  to  our  neighbours  of  Maine,  Michigan,  Kentucky,  and 
Louisiana !     It  has  been  said  of  some  of  our  countrymen 
that  they  have  no  home :  but  it  might  be  more  truly  said  of 
them  all,  that  they  have  half  a  dozen;  the  stage-coach,  the 
canal-boat,  the  steamboat,  the  packet-ship,  the  inn,  and  now 
the  railroad  car.     The  vehicles  for  travelling  thus  furnish 
us  with  a  practical  refutation  of  all  the  prognostics   that 
have  been  proclaimed  of  evil  to  our  country,  from  want  of 
mtercourse  between  its  different  parts,  founded  on  the  expe- 
rience  of  other  nations;  for  they  have  made  us  to  differ 
from  them  in  this  most  essential  particular. 

On  reaching  Newcastle,  the  cars  stop  near  the  steam- 
boat,  the  passengers  alight  upon  a  wooden  stage,  and  are 
soon  safely  embarked,  while  their  luggage  is  dexterously 
rolled  m  upon  the  Jorward  deck.  Cars  laden  with  merchan- 
dise may  be  driven  into  a  large  store-house,  to  be  protected 
m  stormy  weather  or  at  night,  and  fifty  of  them  may  be 
housed  as  comfortably  and  with  as  little  ceremony  as  an  old 
milch  cow  in  a  tanner's  barn. 

Many  pleasant  little  spots  of  cultivated  land  are  seen 
along  the  Delaware,  chiefly  on  the  Pennsylvania  side;  and 
on  either  hand  are  numerous  patches  rescued  from  the  river 


nn 


1 


i!i'!! 


i   Si 


28 


PHILADELPlIIAi. 


by  stone  walls  and  banks  of  earth,  which  exclude  the  water 
when  it  rises,  and  preserve  the  crops  from  overflow.  Few 
travellers  know  the  pleasant  scenes  which  are  found  a  little 
in  the  interior,  as  no  great  route  passes  through  them ;  and 
many  of  the  inhabitants,  being  almost  cut  off  from  inter- 
course with  the  world,  are  little  affected  by  the  exciting  irv 
fiuences  of  the  day,  so  irresistible  to  those  who  are  exposed 
to  them.  This  is  particularly  true  of  a  portion  of  New- 
Jeraey,  not  far  remote.  What  a  bitter  enemy  to  human  im- 
provement is  a  pine  barren !  It  is  the  best  emblem  we  can 
show  of  a  real  European  legitimate.  It  keeps  the  people 
on  the  borders  of  starvation,  so  that  let  the  thirst  of  the 
mind  for  knowledge  be  never  so  great,  it  is  always  exceeded 
by  the  famine  of  the  stomach.  It  separates  men  as  far 
asunder  as  possible,  and  thus  the  Tire  of  knowledge,  like 
scattered  brands,  can  never  kindle  into  a  blaze.  How  these 
obstacles  are  to  be  overcome,  by  what  means  we  can  hope 
to  triumph  over  poverty  and  distance  in  intellectual,  as  we 
can  in  physical  respects,  is  yet  to  be  determined.  Certain 
it  is  that  this  is  a  question  of  great  importance ;  and  the 
success  we  ha^'e  had  in  improvements  of  less  consequence- 
should  stimulate  our  exertions  in  this. 


I  m 

■;  iiji 


CHAPTER  IV. 

Philadelphia. 

Philadelphia  has  beauties  and  excellences  of  its  own,> 
None  of  our  other  cities  has  so  fine  a  kitchen-garden  as 
Southwark,  or  displays  so  much  of  the  beauty  of  utility  and' 
uniformity  in  its  streets.  In  justice,  however,  I  must  allow 
that  no  suburbs  can  be  more  forbidding,  and  no  introductio» 
to  a  large  town  less  promising,  than  the  access  by  some  of 
the  great  routes.  I  hope  the  boasted  literary  character  of 
the  citizens  is  not  more  apparent  than  real.     Whether  it  be 


so  or  not, 

able  qualit 

credit  of  it. 

between  th 

aggregate  i 

better  to  la 

the  whole  i 

Why  PI 

I  am  sure  ] 

Boston,  or 

within  thei 

considerabi 

the  inhabit 

^■irictions  w 

of  our  advi 

sigh  for  the 

us.     It  pro 

gence,  virtu 

as  the  decic 

and   total  ( 

timidity  on  < 

around,  hen 

of  any  of  oi 

perversion  c 

notorious  pi 

puns  in  a 

twelvemontl 

promote  soli 

Athenaeum, 

provide  lect 

are  of  coursi 

must  invite 

think,  more 

How  any  hoc 

threading  th< 

Boston,  espe 

is  difficult  to 

There  is  ( 

the  persuasio 


■lude  the  water 
/etfiow.  Few 
e  found  a  little 
igh  them ;  and 
aff  from  inter- 
he  exciting  itv 
lo  are  exposed 
rtion  of  New- 
r  to  human  im- 
mblem  we  can 
!ps  the  people 
e  thirst  of  the 
ways  exceeded 
38  men  as  far 
nowledge,  like 
;e.  How  these 
is  we  can  hope 
llectual,  as  we 
ined.  Certain 
ance ;  and  the 
IS  consequence- 


ces  of  its  own,> 
ihen-garden  as 
!y  of  utility  and' 
-,  I  must  allow 
no  introduction 
8ss  by  some  of 
ry  character  of 
Whether  it  be 


PHILADELPHIA.  gQ 

80  or  not,  I  sincerely  wish  them  ten-fold  of  this  commend- 
able  quality,  which  they  value  enough  at  least  to  claim  the 
credit  of  It.  We  need  not  wish  to  institute  exact  comparisons 
between  the  intellectual  merits  of  any  of  our  cities,  lest  the 
aggregate  should  rdlect  upon  the  country.  It  were  much 
better  to  labour  zealously  by  combined  exertions  to  increase 
the  whole  slock. 

Why  Philadelphia  should  not  be  the  Athens  of  America, 
1  am  sure  I  cannot  tell,  nor  what  should  prevent  Baltimore, 
Boston,  or  New- York.     The  people  have  all  the  means 
within  their  reach.     We  are  in  the  habit  of  attributing 
considerable  literary  honour  to  some  of  the  cities  of  Europe, 
the  -nhabitants  of  which  are  bound  on  every  hand  by  re- 
litrictions  which  greatly  impede  them;  while  we,  insensible 
ot  our  advantages,  so  superior  in  many  respects,  indolently 
sigh  lor  the  time  when  learning  will  take  up  its  abode  among 
us.     It  probably  is  in  the  power  of  individuals  of  intelli- 
gence,  virtue,  and  influence,  now  living,  by  only  coming  out 
as  the  decided  champions  of  knowledge,  to  effect  a  speedy 
and   total  change  of  things  in  the  United  States.      But 
timidity  on  one  side,  old  habits  on  another,  and  business  all 
around,  hem  m  and  shoot  down  all  the  hopes  we  entertain 
of  any  of  our  citizens  here  and  elsewhere.     Punning  is  the 
perversion  of  the  use  of  words;  and  the  Philadelphians  are 
notorious  punsters.     Some  of  them  will  manufacture  more 
puns  m  a  half  hour  than  you  may  hear  elsewhere  in  a 
twelvemonth.      They   have   some  line    institutions  which 
promote  solid  learning  among  different  classes,  such  as  the 
Athenaeum,  Franklin  Library,  and  sundry  societies  which 
provide  lectures,  books,  &c.     In  medical  institutions  they 
are  of  course  first.    The  general  aspect  of  the  city  certainly 
must  mvite  the  mind  to  study  and  reflection,  one  would 
Jink,  more  than  that  of  most  other  towns  in  the  Union. 
How  anybody  can  pursue  a  straight  train  of  thought  while 
threading  the  crooked  lanes  and  alleys  of  New- York  and 
Boston,  especially  with  the  din  of  the  former  in  his  ears,  it 
is  difficult  to  tell. 

There  is  one  reason  why  I  prefer  Philadelphia;  I  feel 
the  persuasion  always  upon  me  that  every  thing  is  clean. 


•t  ill 


I  (m 


li'. 


V     t 


30 


PHILADELPHIA. 


The  breadth  and  uniformity  of  the  streets  favour  cleanlinea«, 
and  a  great  deal  of  washing  and  scrubbing  is  visi'jle ;  for 
wliatever  house  you  enter,  you  see  hydrants,  and  tubs,  and 
baths,  and  rills  of  living  water,  and  have  the  satisfaction  ot 
reflecting  that  hogsheads  and  rivers  of  it  are  daily  used  ta 
good  purpose.  . , 

The  elevated  banks  of  the  Schuylkill  are  ornamented  with 
several  fine  public  institutions,  among  which  the  Marine 
Hospital  is  conspicuous.     The  marble  quarries,  a  short  dis- 
tance up  that  stream,  afi'ord  most  valuable  facilities  for  the 
erection  of  edifices  of  a  beautiful  material.     A  tour  of  visita- 
tion to  the  Water  Works,  Penitentiary,  House  of  Refuge,  &c„ 
out  of  the  city,  and  the  various  public  buildings,  exhibitions, 
&c.  within,  will  aflbrd  any  traveller  much  interest,  and  he 
will  see  and  hear  things  important  to  be  known,  too  numer- 
ous to  write  or  to  read.     Though  the  state  is  sadly  de- 
ficient in  public  schools,  there  are  some  good  ones ;  and 
the  infant  schools  of  this  city  have  been  celebrated.     Ihe 
American  Sunday  School  Union  has  its  centre  here ;  and 
the  publishing  apparatus  is  very  extensive.      They  have 
for  several  years  issued  about  a  million  of  little  volumes 
annually,  and  have  taken  great  pains  to  improve  the  char- 
acter of  works  for  the  intellectual,  moral,  and  religious 
instruction  of  the  young. 

But  one  who  is  bound  on  a  long  journey  must  not  allow 
himself  to  be  too  long  detained  by  'he  agreeable  objects  o£, 
this  orderly  and  well-arranged  city. 


l^ew-"y 


Whoev 
maker's  si 
feels  on  le; 
anew,  and 
hears  a  cli 
every  thin, 
comer  but 
is  no  inacti 
and  mind  ; 
■excited  by 
compelled 
a  man  has 
step  quick( 
and  if  he 
make  him 
avoid  colli 
the  cross-v 

Another 
about  New 
are  seen  bi 
pression  \\i 
the  stage-c( 
at  irregulai 
to  witness  i 
six  and  sev 
thecompas 
point  to  tak 
rives,  the  1: 
'Ceases,  the 


avour  cleanlinesit 
ig  is  visi'jle ;  for 
Its,  and  tubs,  and 
the  satisfaction  of 
are  daily  used  to- 

3  ornamented  with, 
rhich  the  Marine 
irries,  a  short  dis- 
le  facilities  for  the 
A  tour  of  visita- 
ise  of  Refuge,  &c., 
dings,  exhibitions, 
h  interest,  and  he 
Lnown,  too  numer- 
itate  is  sadly  de- 
;  good  ones ;  and^ 
celebrated.     The 
centre  here ;  and 
live.      They  have 
1  of  little  volumes 
improve  the  char- 
)ral,  and  religious 

ley  must  not  allow 
greeable  objects  of, 


CHAPTER  V. 

>few-York— Activity  of  Citizens—Mcrchants-Societies— 

Steamboats.  :• 

Whoever  visits  JVew-York  feels  as  he  does  in  a  watch^ 
maker's  shop ;  everybody  goes  there  for  the  true  time,  and 
feels  on  leavnig  it  as  if  he  had  been  wound  up  or  regulated 
anew,  and  better  than  he  could  have  done  it  himself.  He 
hears  a  clicking,  as  it  were,  on  all  sides  of  him,  and  finds 
every  thmg  he  looks  at  in  movement,  and  not  a  nook  or 
comer  but  what  is  brim-full  of  business.  Apparently  there 
IS  no  mactivity ;  that  is,  no  person  is  quiescent  both  in  body 
and  mind  at  once.  The  reason  of  this  is,  that  the  lazy  are 
excited  by  the  perpetual  motion  of  the  busy,  or  at  least 
compelled  to  bestir  themselves  to  avoid  being  run  over.  If 
a  man  has  any  sympathetic  excitability,  he  will  inevitably 
step  quicker  in  Broadway  than  in  an  ox-path  in  the  country; 
and  if  he  have  none,  a  regard  for  his  flesh  and  bones  will 
make  him  keep  pace  with  the  crowd  with  which  he  moves, 
avoid  collision  with  that  which  he  meets,  and  hurry  over 
the  cross-walks  to  escape  the  carts  and  omnibuses. 

Another  great  reason  why  there  is  so  much  excitement 
about  New- York  is,  that  the  principal  vehicles  for  travelling 
are  seen  by  so  large  a  portion  of  the  population.  Little  im- 
pression was  produced  on  the  public  in  former  days,  when 
the  stage-coaches  took  off  most  of  the  travellers  by  night  or 
at  irregular  hours:  but  what  can  be  more  animating  than 
to  witness  the  departure  or  arrival  of  the  steamboats  ?  At 
six  and  seven  in  the  morning  boats  start  for  all  quarters  of 
the  compass,  like  so  many  carrier-pigeons,  released  from  one 
point  to  take  the  courses  they  choose.  When  the  hour  ar- 
rives, the  hissing  and  roaring  of  the  steam-pipe  suddenly 
•ceases,  the  departing  travellers  spring  on  board,  their  re- 


iniif 


n 


i '  i 


ir 


! 


I! 


; 


iir  ? 


1,; 
I 


^. 


82 


MERCHANTS. 


maining  friends  fly  for  the  shore,  the  wheels  move  as  if  by 
instinct,  and  boats  tear  friend  from  friend.  No  rov.-boat  is 
left  behind,  as  formerly,  to  accommodate  those  who  lag  be- 
hind :  the  day  of  toleration  for  the  lazy  has  passed  ;  and  all 
the  comfort  they  receive,  when  they  beg  a  moment's  delay, 
is  an  assurance  that  they  will  be  "  in  time  for  the  next  boat." 
But  in  spite  of  all  such  warnings,  we  find  the  ancient  race 
of  the  Loiterers  not  quite  extinct.  They  are  found  at  every 
steamboat-landing  in  the  country  punctually  at  their  time ; 
that  is,  half  a  minute  at  least  too  late :  and  if  the  moment 
for  starting  should  be  delayed  until  to-morrow  or  next  week, 
they  still  would  so  contrive  it  as  to  keep  up  their  consistency. 
This  spirit  of  delay  once  detained  one  of  my  travelling  com- 
panions a  little  too  long,  and  separated  us  for  a  part  of  the 
route,  on  the  enjoyment  of  which  we  had  indulged  anticipa- 
tions, loading  one  of  us  with  a  double  portion  of  luggage, 
and  at  the  same  time  depriving  the  other  of  a  change  of 
raiment.  I  once  saw  an  orange-seller  hurry  on  shore  at  the 
signal  for  starting,  without  waiting  to  give  change  to  a  cus- 
tomer, whose  money  he  held  under  pretence  that  he  had  no 
time;  and  in  another  instance  a  man,  who  meditated  a 
similar  trick  on  his  porter,  was  pulled  back  by  him  for  pay, 
and  detained  on  shore,  while  his  spouse  was  taken  to 
another  city  without  him. 

One  would  think,  from  the  activity  of  the  New- York 
merchant,  that  he  must  be  wholly  absorbed  in  the  pursuit 
of  wealth :  but  on  beconiing  acquainted  with  the  facts,  you 
often  find  that  he  only  redoubles  his  activity  in  business 
hours  to  gain  time  for  some  other  employment  which  he 
prefers.  Not  a  small  proportion  of  the  whole  number  are 
connected  with  some  society  for  the  promotion  of  the  good 
of  their  fellow-citizens  as  fellow-men,  in  morals,  intelligence, 
religion,  or  some  other  important  interests.  This  is  by  no 
means  true  of  all,  nor  of  so  many  as  would  be  desirable,  as 
is  proved  by  the  fact,  that  numbers  are  members  of  two, 
three,  and  sometimes  more  associations.  They  take  their 
intelligence  and  activity  with  them  wherever  they  go  ;  and 
therefore  in  their  society  or  committee-rooms,  with  the  aid 
of  their    commercial   punctuality,    clear-sightedness,  and 


promptitu( 

a  saving  o 

difieront  h 

active  niei 

astonish  a 

mate  of  it. 

annually  c 

objects  wc 

be  easily  I 

large  shai 

individuals 

not  merelj 

the  prospe 

from  the  e: 

influential 

amples  of 

those  who  i 

and  anothe 

ested  benpl 

have  becon 

have  alreac 

It  is  high 

and  emploj 

occupy  imp( 

them  for  m( 

great  object 

by  the  fath« 

vantages,  th 

employment 

they  liave  1 

their  philan 

rity,  and  pri 

excellent  ini 

sphere.     Th 

responsible  i 

the  good  of ( 

to  witness  tl 

schools,  Bib 

less  gratifyii 


BENEVOLENT  ASSOCIATIONS. 


33 


els  move  as  if  by 
.  No  rov.'-l)oat  is 
hose  who  lag  be- 
is  passed  ;  and  all 
a  moment's  delay, 
for  the  next  boat." 
I  the  ancient  race 
are  found  at  every 
ally  at  their  time ; 
lid  if  the  moment 
rrow  or  next  week, 
>  their  consistency, 
my  travelling  com- 
s  for  a  part  of  the 

indulged  anticipa- 
sortion  of  luggage, 
er  of  a  change  of 
rry  on  shore  at  the 
e  change  to  a  cus- 
icc  that  he  had  no 

who  meditated  a 
ck  by  him  for  pay, 
use  was  taken  to 

of  the  New- York 
rbed  in  the  pursuit 
with  the  facts,  you 
Lctivity  in  business 
iloyment  which  he 
whole  number  are 
motion  of  the  good 
norals,  intelligence, 
Its.  This  is  by  no 
lid  be  desirable,  as 
I  members  of  two. 
They  take  their 
•ever  they  go  ;  and 
rooms,  with  the  aid 
ir-sightedness,   and 


promptitude,  generally  act  with  judgment,  good  cfFeef,  and 
asavmg  of  time,  which  could  not  he  expected  from  men  of 
dillercnt  habits.     '1-hc  amount  of  business  performed  by  tlie 
active  merchants  of  this  rity  in  benevolent  societies  would 
astonish  any  one,  if  it  were  possible  to  present  a  clear  esti- 
mate  of  it.    And  on  the  other  hand,  an  account  of  tlie  money 
annually  contributed  by  them  for  .he  promotion  of  similar 
objects  woud  form  an  amount  probably  greater  than  might 
be  easily  believed.     In  all  this  the  purest  motives  have  a 
large  share  of  inlUunico.     It  is  only  necessary  to  know 
individuals  personally  to  perceive  that  many  are  actuated 
not  merely  by  generosity,  but  by  Christian  principle;  and 
the  prospects  of  good  to  the  city,  the  country,  and  the  world. 
Irom  the  extension  of  the  spirit  of  benevolence  among  the 
influential  men   of  this  city,  are  very  encouraging.     Ex- 
amples  of  the  kind  encourage  imitation,  while  they  reward 
those  who  furnish  them ;  and  every  year  sees  one  individual 
and  another  embarking  in  the  delightful  career  of  disinter-  ' 
ested  beitfficence,  and  new  exertions  made  by  those  who 
have  become  more  interested  or  encouraged  by  what  thev 
have  already  effected.  s       J'       <*i  mey 

It  is  highly  gratifying  also  to  perceive  that  the  education 
and  employments  of  multitudes  of  the  young,  who  are  to 
occupy  important  stations  in  society  hereafter,  are  preparinc 
them  for  more  general  and  extensive  labours  for  the  same 
great  objects.     The  present  societies,  created  and  directed 
by  the  fathers,  have  afforded  their  sons,  among  other  ad- 
vantages,  that  most  important  one  of  useful  and  improvine 
employment  for  their  leisure.     In  multitudes  of  instances 
they  have  led  to  the  formation  of  characters  amiable  for 
their  philanthropy,  valuable  for  their  intelligence  and  pu- 
nty.and  promising  by  their  practical  knowledge,  and  The 
excellem  influence  they  already  exercise  in  their  youtliful 
sphere,     fhousands  of  them  are  at  this  moment  active  and 
responsible  members  of  societies,  whose  express  objects  are 
the  gjood  of  others:  and  while  it  is  a  most  agreeable  sight 
to  witness  their  labours  in  literary  associations.  Sabbath- 
schools,  Bible,  Tract,  and  Temperance  societies,  it  is  no 
less  gratifying  to  trace  out  the  influence  which  systematic 


34 


PROMOTION  OF  LKARMNt*. 


hfUcricciuT  produce's  upon  their  habits,  minds,  nud  afrcc- 
tiuiis,  and  (hliiiMS  among  lln^r  family  ami  t-ocial  finles. 
And  how  important  arc  these  iilllueni-cs  in  a  population  n) 
nearly  a.JO.OOO !  But  a  view  of  wfiat  has  been  done,  and 
M'hat  is  doing  in  this  great  eity  by  the  good  and  the  intelli- 
gent, leads  tlie  mind  to  eonsider  what  ought  to  be  or  may 
yet  be  eflected.  , 

And  surely,  with  all  the  advantages  oil'ered  by  New-\orU 
for  the  procuring  ami  the  dillusioii   of  knowledge,  more 
should  be  undertaken  for  the  bcmllt  of  public  intelligence. 
This  eity  should  be  the  centre  of  learning  for  the  V'nion. 
No  other  plae«  in  the  country  can  possibly  enjoy  the  advan- 
tages she  has  to  become  such ;  yet  some  of  our  cities  and 
villiiges  have  turned  to  so  much  better  account  what  means 
they  have  possessed,  that  they  have  become  literary  m  a 
tenfold  greater  proiwrtion.     The  public  schools  are  the  best 
large  ones  in  the  country,  excepting  those  of  Boston ;  and 
hi  some  departments  are  far  superior  to  them.     Some  of 
the  private  schools  are  good :  but  the  vast  majority,  par- 
ticularly of  the  fashionable  ones,  arc  miserably  defective. 
Columbia  College  and  the  University  are  very  respectable 
institutions  for  the  higher  branches  of  learning,  while  the 
Mercantile  Library  Association,  the  Apprentices'  Library, 
the  City  Library,  the  Athena;um,  &c.,  alFord  valuable  means 
of  self-instruction  to  their  various  classes  of  readers.     Un- 
fortunately, the  talents  of  the  learned  are  kept  too  much 
out  of  sight,  and  are  of  course  too  much  underrated  by  the 
public,  who  scarcely  know  that  they  exist.     Attempts  have 
been  made,  from  time  to  time,  to  establish  monthly  maga- 
zines of  diflerent  descriptions,  but  they  have  never  flour- 
ished well ;  for  writers  of  acknowledged  talent  cannot  be 
procured  without  a  reasonable  reward,  and  the  publishers 
are  not  often  disposed  to  hazard  a  large  sum  on  an  uncer- 
tainty.    If  such  men,  however,  were  employed  in  writing 
for  publication,  how  much  better  it  would  be  for  the  country 
tlian  to  leave  them  in  the  retirement  of  their  families  or  of 
tlieir  professions. 

There  is,  therefore,  yet  much  to  be  done  by  the  inhabitants 
of  New- York  for  the  promotion  of  knowledge  ;  and  to  the 


ri 
a 
!) 
c 
d 


R( 

i; 
tc 
I), 
b 

Ol 

fr 

tl 
m 

SI 

ci 
T 
a 
ol 

ai 

S( 

is 

tu 
th 
w 
ti( 

ai 
be 

fl3 
Pt 
Y 
h; 

P« 
sc 

ar 


RMN((, 


NEW-YOnK  STEAMBOATS. 


88 


ul)its,  minds,  and  a  tree- 
nily  itiul  sociul  circles, 
lu-es  in  a  population  ot 
[lat  has  been  ilonc,  and 
he  good  and  the  intelli- 
diat  ought  to  be  or  may 

cs  oflered  by  New-York 
•11   of  knowledge,  more 
It  of  public  intelligence, 
learning  for  the  Dnion. 
lossibly  enjoy  the  advau- 
■t  some  of  our  cities  and 
tter  account  what  means 
re  become  literary  in  a 
jblic  schools  are  the  best 
g  those  of  Boston ;  and 
rior  to  them.     Some  of 
t  the  vast  majority,  par- 
arc  miserably  defective, 
sily  are  very  respectable 
£3  of  learning,  while  the 
he  Apprentices'  Library, 
tc,  alford  valuable  means 
classes  of  readers.     Un- 
rned  are  kept  too  much 
)  much  underrated  by  the 
ley  exist.     Attempts  have 
establish  monthly  maga- 
it  they  have  never  flour- 
vledgcd  talent  cannot  be 
sward,  and  the  publishers 
I  large  sum  on  an  uncer- 
rere  employed  in  writing 
t  would  be  for  tlie  country 
ent  of  their  families  or  of 

be  done  by  the  inhabitants 
)f  knowledge  ;  and  to  the 


rising  generation,  1  think,  wo  may  safely  look  for  it,  as  well 
as  for  the  execution  of  Htill  more  extensive  projects  of 
lienevolenco.  And  on  this  hope  we  may  rely  without  the 
charge  of  being  visionary  in  any  degree  ;  for  the  means  are 
daily  increasing,  and  the  hands  are  innltiplyiiig  and  strength- 
ening by  which  it  is  to  bo  acconiplished. 

ISut  1  have  been  wandering  from  my  subject,  and  can 
seek  an  excuse  for  indulging  in  such  elevating  topics  only 
in  tiie  cnnoi)ling  view  presented  by  the  IJay  of  New- York, 
to  the  traveller  who  crosses  it  in  one  of  the  great  steam- 
boats whicli  daily  skim  over  its  surface.  Were  the  shores 
but  of  an  elevation  corresponding  with  the  other  features 
of  the  scene,  there  woidd  be  nothing  to  regret  by  the 
friend  of  the  picturesque.  Staten  Island  approaches  nearer 
than  any  other  part  of  the  surrounding  land  to  what  we 
might  wish  to  see  on  every  side,  and  presents  a  pleasing 
swell,  with  a  variety  of  lines  and  hues  in  its  enclosures  and 
crops,  the  village,  and  the  spacious  Quarantine  edifices. 
There  are  some  pretty  spots,  with  pleasant  shades,  enjoying 
a  view  of  a  water  scene,  animated  by  the  frequent  passage 
of  the  finest  steamboats. 

These  vessels  have  now  become  improved  and  refined, 
apparently  almost  to  the  grade  of  rational  beings.  They 
seem  to  a  passenger  on  board  half  conscious  of  the  prom- 
ises held  out  by  the  newspapers  of  their  speed  and  punc- 
tuality,  of  the  hour  when  their  arrival  may  be  expected,  and 
the  anxiety  of  those  who  await  them ;  and  quite  familiar 
with  the  shoals  and  landing-places.  You  feel  their  emo- 
tions, at  least  their  straining  and  labour  under  your  feet. 
When  you  observe  their  movements  from  a  distance,  they 
appear  stUl  more  as  if  endued  with  life  and  thought.  A 
boat,  with  a  beautiful  model  and  elegant  proportions,  comes 
flying  over  the  water  almost  without  disturbing  it,  rounds  a 
point,  and  directs  her  rapid  course  towards  a  landing-place. 
You  see  that  her  speed  is  known,  and  that  her  punctuality 
has  been  established  by  long  and  regular  practice :  for  the 
persons  who  have  come  from  a  distance  to  embark  have  yet 
scarcely  reached  the  shore,  or  are  just  appearing  in  view ; 
and  the  landlord  remains  at  his  door  until  she  has  reached 


80 


A  STEAMBOAT  LANDIN'O. 


a  certain  spot,  and  tlicn  leaves  it  just  in  Inne  to  meet  her 
by  a  leisurely  walk.     Ther.^  is  no  hurry,  bcause  there  is 
no  irresulariiy  and  no  un.-ertainty.     She  cuts  the  water,  bu 
witlr  as  little  spray  as  a  knife  makes  ,11  dividing  a  loal  ol 
bread.     There  is  merely  a  little  risin-  of  the  surlaec  under 
the  bow,  the  wheels  scarcely  splash  the  sides  of  the  l)oai 
as  they  revolve,  and  the  water  .,ci:is  a^ain  under  the  sli^m, 
leaving  only  a  smooth  cicatrice  ui)on  the  surhice.     fc>he  ap- 
proaches tiie  shore  like  a  houiul  nosing  out  his  own  kennel ; 
her  wheels  desist,  and  she  lloats  on  silently  as  a  feather. 
For  a  moment  she  stops  to  press  against  the  wharf,  and  the 
post  to  which  she  is  daily  fastened  :  the  wheels  move  gently 
back,  and  she  is  in  her  place.     A  little  mustering  is  seen 
forward,  about  as  much  as  is  witnessed  at  a  horsc-shoemg 
at  a  country  blacksmith's,  and  she  is  again  on  her  way. 
Not  a  loud  word  has  been  spoken ;  yet  in  that  busy  moment, 
Mr.  Smith's  family  have  landed,  witli  their  fourteen  trunks ; 
Thomas  Brown  has  saluted  his  wife,  and  bidden  farewell 
till  to-morrow ;  one  has  landed  to  shoot  or  fish  in  the  neigh- 
bourhood, another  has  shipped  his  horse  and  gig  lor  his  own 
stable  in  the  city,  or  a  basket  of  beans  for  the  market,  while 
farewell  is  waved  by  friends  and  acquaintances  to  mer- 
chants,  fishermen,  and  others,  and  the  correspondence  of 
the  neighbourhood  is  thrown  upon  deck  m  the  little  mail- 
bag.     Away  flies  the  boat,  followed  with  a  few  nods  and 
gazes,  to  return  again  at  the  fixed  hour,  and  renew  the 
scene. 


al 
a 
fr 
ni 
w 
fa 
w 

bE 
se 
ar 
Y 
hi 
111 

y< 

fn 
pc 
R( 

fn 
su 
in 
thi 

Pl 
be 

Wi 


sa 


»iN'a. 


it  in  lime  to  meet  her 
hiirry,  be'iiuse  there  is 
Slie  cuts  the  watiT,  l)iil 
»  ,11  ihviihng  a  h)iil'  of 
lu-  of  the  suriiiec  imder 

the  sides  of  the  bor.l 

affiiiii  iimler  the  slrrn, 
II  the  surfiicc.  She  ap- 
ing out  his  own  kennel ; 
an  silently  us  a  feather, 
ainsi  the  wharf,  and  the 

the  wheels  move  gently 
little  mustering  is  seen 
Bssed  at  a  horse-shoeing 

is  again  on  her  way. 
yet  in  that  busy  moment, 
til  their  fourteen  trunks ; 
ife,  and  hidden  farewell 
hoot  or  fish  in  the  neigh- 
lorse  and  gig  for  his  own 
ans  for  the  market,  while 
1  acquaintances  to  mer- 
1  the  correspondence  of 

deck  in  tlie  little  mail- 
id  with  a  few  nods  and 
ed  hour,  and  renew  the 


CHAPTER  VI. 

The  Sea-iiliorp — Lons;  Dranrli — Uiithini; — .Scenery — Shipwrecks — 
Form!)  of  Danger  and  Modes  of  Escupe. 

Long  Branch  is  a  favourite  resort  to  the  citizens  of 
New- York,  and  still  more  so  to  those  of  Philadelphia, 
altliough  they  have  to  perform  a  long  monotonous  ride,  over 
a  sandy  path,  across  a  pine  plain  to  reach  it,  while  the  route 
from  New-York  is  by  steam,  excepting  four  of  the  last 
miles.  A  description  of  the  place  may  be  given  in  a  few 
words;  yet  notliing  short  of  a  visit  to  it,  and  a  long 
familiarity  with  its  aspect  in  dillerent  states  of  weather, 
will  give  any  person  an  ade(|uate  idea  of  its  attractions. 

I  had  visited  many  points  of  our  more  northern  sea-coast 
before  I  saw  Long  Branch,  but  had  found  none  of  them  re- 
sembling it  in  all  its  striking  characteristics.  Here  a  smooth 
and  handsome  plain  extends  to  the  very  borders  of  the  sea. 
You  have  no  uidication  of  your  approach  to  it  in  the  bleak 
hills,  beds  of  sand,  masses  of  rock,  or  clusters  of  fishing- 
liuts,  which  in  other  places  generally  prepare  you  for  what 
you  are  to  behold.  On  the  contrary,  when  you  look  out 
from  the  hard-jolting  Jersey  wagon  in  which  you  are  trans- 
ported across  the  state,  or  from  the  steamboat-landing  at 
Red  Bank,  you  see  retired  farms  or  small  villages,  or  more 
frequently  a  smooth  road  overshadowed  by  forest-trees, 
such  as  you  would  suppose  might  extend  a  hundred  miles 
in  any  direction.  You  are  surprised,  therefore,  when,  as 
the  horses  turn  in  front  of  the  hotel,  you  find  the  grassy 
plain  suddenly  terminating,  and  at  the  depth  of  forty  feet 
beneath,  observe  the  roar  and  tumult  of  the  never-ceasing 
waves  rolling  from  the  very  horizon. 

Little  arbours  have  been  erected  on  the  verge  of  the 
sandy  precipice,  furnished  with  seats,  and  covered  with 


r 


M 


tOTiO  nBASfll. 


jTrccii  ItouijliSi  whrrr  you  may  nt  any  lunir  ol  a  i-lcar  day 
ciijov  an  a(jrcpal)lo  sliadr,  ami  tlio  siulit  of  a  wliiK;  bcatth 
cxtciidiiiK  several  iniU-H  tii  tlic  ri!,'lii  and  It  ft,  coiiiinu.illy 
lashed  i>y  llie  billows  of  the  oeeiiii.  At  ninlit  the  scene  is 
often  Nlill  liner  than  by  day;  for  then,  iho  eyes  beinijr  less 
called  into  re(|nisilion  amid  tlio  <renoral  obscurity,  the  ear 
is  more  sensil)le  to  the  sounds  wliieli  fall  U|)on  it,  and  thn 
feelings  are  in  a  sin^'tdar  manner  alVected  l)y  the  roar,  dash- 
ing, and  concussions  of  near  and  distant  waves.  Sonic  of 
these  arc  dimly  seen,  and  others  only  heard  as  they  strike 
upon  some  more  remote  part  of  the  shore. 

'I'hc  sandy  precipice  appears  to  be  everywhere  slowly 
crumbling  ai'ul  wearing  away.  Why  it  is  al)lc  to  resist  at 
all  the  unintcrmitted  violence  of  the  immense  power  which 
is  continually  directed  against  it,  is  at  first  not  easily  ex- 
plained. At  this  season  of  the  year  there  is  a  beautiful 
bank  of  white  sand  formed  for  its  protection,  a  little  in  ad- 
vance, which  extends  with  the  greatest  uniformity  as  far  as 
the  eye  can  reach,  and  sullers  not  a  drop  of  the  water  to 
pass  beyond  it,  except  when  the  spray  is  driven  much  liigher 
than  usual  during  a  violent  easterly  storm.  In  the  warmer 
seasons,  when  you  descend  from  the  precipice,  therefore, 
you  find  yourself  for  a  moment  shut  out  from  the  view  of 
the  ocean,  by  the  intervention  of  the  summit  of  this  bank, 
which  may  be  about  twenty-five  feet  above  the  level  of  the 
water ;  and  after  stirmountiiig  that,  you  tread  the  hard  bcacli, 
which  descends  with  a  smooth  and  gentle  slope,  and  is 
swept  every  few  seconds  by  another  and  another  wave  that 
here  spends  the  force  it  has  exerted,  perhaps,  over  hundreds 
of  miles  of  water  without  intermission.  Nature  never  acts 
without  doing  something  to  gratify  the  taste  of  man,  cither 
for  the  beautiful  or  the  sublime,  and  very  often  consults  it 
in  both.  While  the  thundering  roar  of  the  sea  was  every 
moment  striking  upon  my  ears,  and  the  successive  deluges 
that  flooded  the  lower  part  of  the  beach  seemed  sufiicient 
to  tear  rocks  in  pieces,  it  was  pleasing  to  see  how  effectu- 
ally its  violence  was  tamed,  and  its  power  harmlessly  spent, 
by  the  ascent  of  the  beach.  By  directing  its  course  up  an 
inclined  plane,  ite  impulse  was  gradually  lost,  and  the  water 


ne 
ha 
bn 
mi 
fis 
W 
tin 
Br 
lov 

go 

mn 

aiu 
to 
sel 
the 
am 
fav 
abl 
( 
wa; 
not 
tior 
neg 
see 
dell 
eng 
am( 
is  c 


IIATIIINO  ON  TIIE  COAST. 


89 


y  lunir  of  :i  clear  (l;iy 
iiilit  of  !i  whit«!  heiitrii 
111  1111(1  It'fi,  coiiiiiuMlly 
At  iii^lit  the  siTiic  is 
n,  iho  «'yrH  Ix'ini;  Ichs 
oral  oliscurity,  tin-  oar 
ii  Tail  U|)oii  it,  and  ihn 
fctcd  liy  iho  roar,  daHJi- 
islant  waves.  Some  ol' 
ilv  lu'unl  as  iliey  strike 
shore. 

1)0  cvcrywiioro  slowly 
y  it  is  able  to  resist  at 
immense  power  wliiclj 
at  first  not  easily  ex- 
;ar  there  is  a  beautiful 
)rotection,  a  little  in  ad- 
cst  uniformity  as  far  as 
a  drop  of  the  water  to 
ly  is  driven  much  higher 
storm.  In  the  warmer 
he  precipiee,  therefore, 
lut  otit  from  the  view  of 
e  summit  of  this  bank, 
t  above  the  level  of  the 
on  tread  the  hard  beach, 
id  fTcntle  slope,  and  is 
r  and  another  wave  that 
perhaps,  over  hundreds 
on.  Nature  never  acts 
he  taste  of  man,  either 
(1  very  often  consults  it 
r  of  the  sea  was  every 
1  the  successive  deluges 
beach  seemed  sufiicieut 
sing  to  see  how  effectu- 
power  harmlessly  spent, 
irecting  its  course  up  an 
ually  lost,  and  the  water 


sponianrnusly  sunk  back,  like  a  feeble  eliijd  jificr  an  edorf, 
falling  anaiii  into  the  arms  of  its  niolliei.  The  highest 
point  gained  iiy  the  strongest  waves  was  marked  by  u 
waving  line  of  scii-weeds,  gracefully  festooned  on  the 
smooiii  sand  for  miles  in  length.  (Jhildren,  who  delight  to 
gather  shells  fioiii  the  brim  of  ohi  ocean's  bowl,  may  safely 
stray  down  to  this  line,  and  do  often  venture  far  below  it ; 
but  sometimes  our  whole  party  was  seen  Hying  before  a  giant 
wave,  which  hurried  at  our  heels,  as  if  to  terrify  us  for 
encroa<-hing  too  far  on  the  empire  of  the  sea. 

(->ne  great  pleasure  in  visiting  a  scene  like  this,  is  to  wit- 
ness the  natural  inlliience  which  the  aspects  of  the  ocean 
have  upon  the  human  mind.  'I'he  gay  and  young,  who  arc 
brought  in  crowds  by  wealthy  parents  from  the  cajjitals, 
may  stand  side  by  side  with  the  solitary  invalid,  or  the 
fisherman's  son,  and  all  participate  in  the  same  feelings. 
We  may  hear  of  the  good  beds,  the  fine  dinners,  or  some- 
times of  the  choice  wine  furnished  to  visiters  at  Long 
Branch ;  but  I  am  happy  to  believe  that  most  of  those  who 
love  the  place  love  it  for  its  natural,  its  real  beauties,  and 
go  home  belter  than  they  came.  (Certain  it  is,  that  friendships 
may  be  hen!  cultivated  which  will  be  valuable  elsewhere, 
and  that  impressions  worth  possessing  may  be  communicated 
to  the  young  and  the  old.  The  scenes  which  preseni  them- 
selves to  the  opening  eye,  and  the  sounds  which  strike  upon 
the  ear,  tend  to  prepare  the  feelings  for  useful  instructions ; 
and  if  the  parent  seeks  opportunities  to  convey  them,  a  more 
favourable  place  could  hardly  be  found  among  our  fashion- 
able resorts. 

On  this  subject  I  may,  perhaps,  say  something  in  the 
way  of  brief  hints  hereafter.  For  myself,  unhappily,  I  did 
not  come  well  provided  with  the  means  of  self-instruc- 
tion;  but  I  cannot  here  stop  to  lament  my  ignorance  or 
neglect,  for  I  had  soon  other  things  to  think  of.  I  had  de- 
scended to  the  beach  with  a  company  of  bathers,  and  was 
deluged  by  a  roaring  wave  that  suddenly  rolled  up  and 
engulfed  us  all.  Then  it  was  that  I  first  fully  realized  the 
amount  of  walrr-power  (as  the  too  technical  term  is)  which 
is  constantly  wasted  upon  the  coast,  and  the  cause  of  the 


40 


BATHING  ON  THE  COAST. 


~r 


sand-banks  which  mark  the  margin  of  the  oiean  in  all 
climates  and  regions.  I  was  suddenly  lifterl  up,  rolled  this 
way  and  that,  and  then  drawn  downwards  by  a  force  I  had 
neither  time,  energy,  nor  skill  enough  to  oppose,  and  felt  for 
a  moment  as  if  I  had  owed  my  life.to  a  neiglibour  who  held 
me  up  by  my  bathing-robe.  As  the  returning  flood  rushed 
by  me,  bushels  of  pebbles  rolled  rapidiv  over  my  naked  feet 
and  against  my  ancles,  as  if  resolved  to  deprive  me  of  my 
only  support.  Instead  of  retreating  to  dry  ground,  as  I 
wished  to  do,  my  companions  hurried  much  fiirther  down, 
apparently  drawing  me  with  tliem,  to  meet  another  wave, 
which  came  foaming  on  more  violently  than  its  predecessor ; 
and,  before  I  had  recovered  from  the  stupifying  elfect  of  the 
former,  I  felt  myself  sealed  up  tighter  and  longer  than  be- 
fore :  eyes,  ears,  nose,  mouth,  breath,  and  all.  How  little 
like  a  man  does  a  man  feel  in  such  circumstances  !  Plunged 
in  an  element  foreign  to  his  nature,  the  use  of  all  his  senses 
entirely  suspended,  unless  the  growling  in  the  ears  is  to  be 
called  hearing,  and  the  sensation  of  cold  and  wetness  is 

feeling the  legs  useless,  because  the  feet  are  lifted  above 

terra  firma,  or  rather  the  sand  and  water  moving  below 
you !  This  is  one  of  tlie  cases  in  which  a  native  American 
citizen  may  be  suddenly  disfranchised.  What  benefit  did  I 
derive  at  that  time  from  my  birth-right  ?  Of  what  use  was 
it  to  me  that  there  were  written  laws,  courts,  jurors,  lawyers, 
and  judges,  that  I  might  have  claimed  the  rights  of  a  citizen 
in  any  state  of  the  Union,  when  here,  not  twenty  feet  from 
high-water  mark,  I  might  be  taken  feloniously,  with  malice 
aforethought,  and  thrown  into  the  jaws  of  such  a  beast  of  a 
billow,  exposed  to  death,  or  at  least  put  into  great  consterna- 
tion ?  Is  there  no  statute  for  such  case  made  and  provided  I 
Is  there  no  writ  that  will  issue  against  the  perpetrators  of 
such  an  enormity?  Who  is  safe?  Wiio  can  boast  of  the 
privilege  of  existing  in  this  republic,  wliile  the  very  judge 
on  the  bench,  or  just  off  it,  if  he  happens  to  stop  into  the 
water  at  liong  Branch,  may  be  thus  suddenly  deprived  of 
every  right  dear  to  nature  ? 

All  this,  and  more,  perhaps,  passed  through  my  mind  while 
I  remained  submerged ;  but  I  can  give  no  adequate  idea  of 


t 
I 
r 
r 
I 
I 
s 
'J 
r 
a 

F 

ii 

n 
ii 

s 

tl 
11 
c 

r 

e 

ti 

r 

c 

f( 

a 
e 
u 
b 


ll 
b 
n 
r 
d 
n 
h 


3  COAST. 

rgin  of  the  ocean  in  all 
denly  lifted  up,  rolled  this 
wnwards  by  a  force  I  had 
ugh  to  oppose,  and  felt  for 
e  to  a  neiglibour  who  held 
the  returning  flood  rushed 
rapidiv  over  my  naked  feet 
Ived  to  deprive  me  of  my 
ting  to  dry  ground,  as  I 
rried  much  fiirlher  down, 
m,  to  meet  another  wave, 
ently  than  its  predecessor ; 
the  stupifying  elfect  of  the 
iighter  and  longer  than  be- 
eath,  and  all.  How  little 
1  circumstances !  Plunged 
e,  the  use  of  all  his  senses 
owling  in  the  ears  is  to  be 
n  of  cold  and  wetness  is 
e  the  feet  are  lifted  above 

and  water  moving  below 
n  which  a  native  American 
hised.  What  benefit  did  I 
-right  ?  Of  what  use  was 
ws,  courts,  jurors,  lawyers, 
limed  the  rights  of  a  citizen 

here,  not  twenty  feet  from 
en  feloniously,  with  malice 
!  jaws  of  such  a  beast  of  a 
ist  put  into  great  consterna- 
h  case  made  and  provided  ? 
igainst  the  perpetrators  of 
e  ?  Wiio  can  boast  of  the 
lublic,  wliile  the  very  judge 
3  happens  to  stop  into  the 

thus  suddenly  deprived  of 

ssed  through  my  mind  while 
n  give  no  adequate  idea  of 


1 


SHIPWRECKS. 


41 


the  state  of  desperation  in  which  I  remained,  until  I  found 
my  head  above  water,  and  felt  at  liberty  to  breathe,  to  look, 
and  to  spciik.  What  I  was  prepared  to  say  I  need  not  iiere 
record,  for  it  was  never  uttered.  The  power  which  iiad  so 
unceremoniously  drawn  me  into  the  water  was  not  tliat  of  a 
rude  coinpaiiion,  as  I  might  have  supposed,  but  the  irre- 
sistible torrent  which  had  also  borne  away  my  old  friends. 
These  now  reappeared  with  me,  and  were  standing  beside 
me,  overwhiriincd  with  a  torrent  of  laughter,  and  quite  un- 
able to  answer  my  angry  interrogatories.  My  vexation, 
perhaps,  still  more  excited  their  mirth,  which  soon  showed 
itself  in  a  manner  that  I  could  not  resist ;  and  after  forgetting 
my  late  embarrassment,  I  consented  to  descend  once  more 
into  the  brine,  and  had  on  the  whole  a  delightful  batli. 

By  a  remarkable  provision  of  nature,  which  seems  de- 
signed for  benevolent  purposes  as  well  as  that  whicii  has 
thrown  up  the  sandbeach,  a  partial  barricade  of  the  same 
material  is  generally  found  heaped  up  by  the  waves  at  a 
considerable  distance  from  the  shore,  over  which  the  ap- 
proaching billows  first  turn  in  foam,  and  begin  to  lose  their 
force.  Its  position  is  marked  by  a  white  line,  which  the 
eye  can  trace  for  miles  up  and  down,  parallel  to  the  sinuo^- 
tics  of  the  shore,  and  everywhere  serving  the  same  pur- 
pose. Such  bars  have  sometimes  proved  of  use,  by  re- 
ceiving vessels  when  driving  on  towards  a  rocky  shore  be- 
fore an  irresistible  storm ;  and  many  a  published  account  of 
a  shipwreck  makes  mention  of  them.  In  many  cases,  how- 
ever, vessels  have  only  remained  upon  these  outer  bars 
until  so  strained  as  to  leak  dangerously;  and  then,  after 
being  beaten  over  them  by  the  force  of  repeated  waves,  have 
sunk  before  reaching  the  shore. 

Every  thing  relating  to  shipwrecks  is  of  interest  along 
this  coast,  where  multitudes  of  vessels  of  diflerent  sizes  have 
been  lost,  and  where  fragments  of  old  decks,  spars,  <fcc.  fur- 
nish the  scattering  farm-houses  with  much  of  their  fuel,  and 
remind  the  visiter,  during  his  strolls  on  the  beach,  of  the 
dreadful  disasters  and  sufTerings  of  which  it  is  almost  an- 
nually the  scene.  As  being  wrecked  is  too  often  inevitable 
here,  how  to  be  wrecked  most  scientifically  becomes  a  ques- 


42 


SHIPWRECKS. 


II 

1' 


tion  of  importanne.  Strange  as  it  may  sound,  there  is  such 
a  thing  as  running  a  ship  on  shore  elegantly,  and  meriting 
the  command  of  a  larger  vessel  by  losing  a  smaller  one  in 
the  right  manner.  Suppose,  for  instance,  that  one  of  the 
ships  frequently  to  be  seen  here  on  the  horizon,  instead  of 
shunning  this  shore  as  they  arc  fain  to  do,  should  be  blov/n 
by  an  irresistible  wind  towards  it,  until  it  became  evident 
that  it  must  strike.  It  is  now  left  to  the  master  to  deter- 
mine whether  she  shall  lie  with  her  side  or  her  stern  to  the 
waves  after  she  has  ceased  to  float.  If  that  the  flat  stem 
should  receive  their  full  force,  like  St.  Paul's  ship  at  Melita, 
the  vessel  could  not  long  resist  the  shocks,  whic  ii  are  violent 
almost  beyond  calcidation.  If  she  should  present  her  side 
in  an  inclined  position,  the  waves  would  waste  a  part  of  their 
force  upon  it  as  they  do  upon  the  beach ;  but  then  the  con- 
dition of  the  crew  would  be  forlorn,  as  the  sea  must  make 
what  is  called  a  fair  breach  over  her.  But  there  is  a  possi- 
bility, in  some  cases,  by  the  exercise  of  much  skill,  of  lay- 
ing a  ship  ashore  in  a  still  more  favourable  position,  viz.  so 
that  the  waves  shall  strike  her  bows  and  cut  themselves  in 
two.  If  the  captain  and  his  men  retain  tlieir  self-possession 
to  the  last  moment,  the  vessel  may  possibly  be  made  to 
wear  just  before  she  strikes,  and  touch  the  ground  stern  first. 
If  after  this  she  is  not  turned  too  far  by  the  wind  or  the  sea, 
her  situation  is  tolerably  comfortable  for  a  desperate  one. 
But  then  other  dangers  are  to  be  apprehended.  A  ship 
seldom  is  materially  injured  by  the  first  contact  with  the 
ground ;  but  terrible  leaks  are  often  produced  afterward  by 
her  being  repeatedly  lifted  up  by  the  waves  and  dropped 
again  upon  the  hard  bottom  by  their  sudden  retiring.  If, 
after  this,  as  kas  been  already  remarked,  she  is  carried  into 
deep  water,  unless  the  pumps  can  keep  her  hold  from  fill- 
ing too  fast,  she  must  sink,  and  probably  every  person  on 
board,  as  well  as  the  cargo,  will  go  down  with  her. 

In  several  instances,  which  were  mentioned  to  me  by 
some  of  the  older  inhabitants  of  this  dangerous  coast,  the 
lops  of  masts  peeping  out  of  the  water  between  the  shoal 
and  the  beach,  have  given  the  first  intimation  of  melancholy 
midnight-wrecks.     It  is  comparatively  more  common,  I  be- 


liet 
fin( 
aiK 
bill 
wh 
I 
sal" 
or 
ner 
fine 
difl 
stoi 
son 
the 
brc 
by 

dan 

beg 

sel 

boa 

still 

furt 

lane 

time 

imn 

and 

thet 

fall 

pow 

wre 

thei 

the 

face 

muc 

and 

lenc 

gra\ 

subs 


SIIU'WRECKS. 


43 


may  sound,  there  is  such 
elegantly,  and  meriting 
f  losing  a  smaller  one  in 
nstance,  that  one  of  the 
1  the  horizon,  instead  of 
1  to  do,  should  be  blown 
until  it  beeame  evident 
t  to  the  master  to  detor- 
r  side  or  her  stern  to  the 
t.  If  that  the  flat  stern 
St.  Paul's  ship  at  Melita, 
shocks,  whic  ii  are  violent 
!  should  present  her  side 
ould  waste  a  part  of  their 
beach ;  but  then  the  con- 
rn,  as  the  sea  must  make 
er.  But  there  is  a  possi- 
ise  of  much  skill,  of  lay- 
ivourable  position,  viz.  so 
ws  and  cut  themselves  in 
etain  tlieir  self-possession 
ay  possibly  be  made  to 
uch  the  ground  stern  first, 
ar  by  the  wind  or  the  sea, 
ble  for  a  desperate  one. 
e  apprehended.  A  ship 
le  first  contact  with  the 
in  produced  afterward  by 
the  waves  and  dropped 
heir  sudden  retiring.  If, 
larked,  she  is  carried  into 
1  keep  her  hold  from  fill- 
probably  every  person  on 
o  down  with  her. 
ere  mentioned  to  me  by 
his  dangerous  coast,  the 
water  between  the  shoal 
intimation  of  melancholy 
vely  more  common,  I  be- 


lievc,  on  approaching  the  shore  in  the  morning,  to  see  some 
line  vessel  lixcd  upon  tlie  shoal,  wiih  her  !sj)ars  partly  gone, 
and  |)arily  loaded  with  signals  of  distress,  and  her  decks 
either  ciowtlcd  with  anxious  sullerers,  or  swept  of  those 
who  might  have  told  of  the  events  of  the  night. 

But  the  danger  above  mentioned  is  sometimes  passed  in 
safety.  Sonic  vessels  are  borne  over  the  shoal  with  greater 
or  less  injury,  and  landed,  not  gently,  perhaps,  but  perma- 
nently, iipon  the  beach,  which  now  presents  to  our  eyes  so 
fine  a  sight,  so  safe  and  beautiful  a  walk.  But  ah  !  how 
different  a  spot  to  them,  when  the  fury  of  an  etiuinoctial 
storm  is  raging,  which  every  autumn  drives  back  the  beach 
some  sixty  or  eighty  feet,  so  that  the  slope  commences  at 
the  sandy  cliff  itself,  over  which  the  billows  attempt  to 
break,  and  which  is  often  rendered  almost  unapproachable 
by  the  spray. 

When  a  vessel  has  onje  been  thrown  upon  this  beach,  the 
danger  of  suking  is  past,  and  the  ocean  immediately 
begins  to  empluv  itself  actively  for  the  security  of  the  ves- 
sel and  cargo,  as  well  as  for  the  protection  of  those  on 
board  against  further  damage.  The  force  of  the  wind,  and 
still  more  that  of  successive  waves,  is  employed  to  pusli  it 
further  and  further  up  the  acclivity,  and  nearer  to  the  dry 
land ;  and  after  the  hull  has  remained  stationary  for  a  short 
time,  a  stronger  wave  rolls  in,  which  rises  higher  than  its 
immediate  predecessors,  holds  it  an  instant  afloat  again, 
and  thrusts  it  unceremoniously  a  little  further  up  the  steep ; 
then  retiring,  leaves  it,  perhaps,  in  the  spot  where  it  is  to' 
fall  piece-meal,  and  where  its  keel  is  to  decay.  Besides  the 
power  of  the  Avaves  rolhng  in  from  the  ocean,  the  ship- 
wrecked  vessel  and  her  unfortunate  crew  find  benefit  from 
their  retirement :  for  as  each  wave  flows  back  again  down 
the  descending  beach,  it  bears  rapidly  over  its  smooth  sur- 
face cart-loads  of  the  loose  pebbles  and  sand  which  so 
much  incommode  the  inexperienced  bather.  Their  quantity, 
and  the  size  of  the  beach-stones,  are  increased  by  the  vio- 
lence of  the  waves  in  a  gale,  and  the  process  of  grinding 
gravel  into  sand  is  vastly  facilitated.  This  mass  of  moving 
substances  is  ready  to  accumulate  rapidly  against  every 


^.^„-.^  f 


44 


SHIPWRECKS. 


obstacle  that  is  fixed  sufliciently  to  resist  it  in  its  descent ; 
and  no  sooner  is  ;i  vessel  left  to  rest  upon  the  beach,  than  a 
bank  l)e<!;''>s  to  be  formed  of  sand  and  stones  dejmsited  there 
by  tiio  retiring  waves.  A  causey  thus  self-constructed  from 
the  wreck  to  the  shore  has  in  some  instances  oll'ered  the 
crew  the  earliest  means  of  escape ;  and  in  particular  cir- 
cumstances may  have  proved  their  only  safety.  If  a  vessel 
should  thus  be  thrown  upon  a  beach  when  the  tide  is  near 
its  el)l),  and  the  bank  be  formed  in  time  to  allow  the  crew 
opportunity  to  escape  over  it  to  the  land  at  low  water,  they 
would  be  saved  the  hazards  attending  another  llood-tide,  the 
floating  of  the  ship  again,  with  perhaps  a  change  of  wind 
that  might  drive  it  into  deep  water  and  sink  it:  to  say 
nothing  of  a  prolonged  exposure  to  wet,  cold,  fear,  fatigue, 
and  hunger. 

The  ship  which  has  been  thrown  upon  such  a  beach  as 
this,  nearly  at  the  height  of  the  tide,  and  for  whicii  the  sea 
is  rapidly  constructing  an  embankment  to  the  shore,  is  per- 
haps in  the  most /avourable  and  hopeful  condition  in  which 
a  wreck  can  -be  situated.  Yet  how  replete  with  inconve- 
nienbfes,  with  distresses  and  dangers,  is  such  a  situation  to 
those  on  board  !  The  disaster  may  have  occurred  within  a 
brief  hour  of  the  time  when  the  crew  had  indulged  sanguine 
hopes  of  escape  from  serious  injury  by  the  storm,  or  when, 
after  prolonged  labours,  suH'erings,  and  apprehensions,  they 
have  neither  physical  nor  mental  energy  to  endure  their 
present  trials,  or  to  avail  themselves  of  any  favourable  cir- 
cumstances in  their  situation.  They  are  probably  ignorant 
of  the  coast  on  which  they  are  thrown,  and  involved  in  the 
obscurity  of  an  atmosphere  troubled  with  tempests,  sur- 
charged with  mist,  rain,  or  Hying  spray,  and  perhaps  dark- 
ened by  night.  Thus  tiie  mariner  is  often  kept  in  anxious 
suspense,  and  appreliends  the  utmost  danger  even  when  his 
escape  is  almost  secured.  Sometimes,  acting  under  ill- 
founded  apprehcnsioni  of  their  prospects,  lives  have  been 
unnecessarily  exposed  and  sacrificed;  boats  have  been 
prematurely  launched  and  swamped  on  spots  which  in  a 
short  time  might  have  been  passed  on  foot  dry-shod.  But 
how  can  men  be  expected  always  to  form  and  act  upon  cor- 


re 

^^ 

Ol 

sa 
ar 
m 
Si 
fe 

8V 

ge 

CO 

to 
Ui 

sai 
pa 
an 
an 
sal 

ag 
the 
to 

an( 
bei 
an( 
vie 
me 
cas 
esc 

GUI 

to 

wh 

Ian 

apf 

ren 

im[ 

moi 

and 

ble, 


:8. 


MEANS  OF  RESCUE. 


48 


)  resist  it  in  its  descent ; 
St  upon  the  beach,  than  a 
ind  stones  dei)osited  there 
hus  self-construetcd  from 
inc  instances  oll'ered  the 
c ;  and  in  particular  cir- 
only  safety.  If  a  vessel 
ncii  when  the  tide  is  near 
in  time  to  allow  llie  crew 
D  land  at  low  water,  they 
injr  luiotlier  flood-tide,  the 
crhaps  a  change  of  wind 
Iter  and  sink  it:  to  say 
to  wet,  cold,  fear,  fatigue, 

wn  upon  su("h  a  beach  as 
Je,  and  for  wliich  tlie  sea 
ment  to  the  shore,  is  per- 
opeful  condition  in  which 
flow  replete  with  inconve- 
jrs,  is  such  a  situation  to 
\y  have  occurred  within  a 
ew  had  indulged  sanguine 
y  by  the  storm,  or  when, 
,  and  apprehensions,  they 
I  energy  to  endure  their 
es  of  any  favourable  cir- 
ley  are  probably  ignorant 
'own,  and  involved  in  the 
bled  with  tempests,  sur- 
spray,  and  perhaps  dark- 
•  is  often  kept  in  anxious 
lost  danger  even  when  his 
etimes,  acting  under  ill- 
rospects,  lives  have  been 
iticed;  boats  have  been 
ped  on  spots  which  in  a 
•d  on  foot  dry-shod.  But 
to  form  and  act  upon  cor- 


rect opinions,  in  circumstances  so  trying  and  so  doubtful  ? 
Who  can  distinguish  between  a  thousand  different  parts  of 
our  coast,  even  in  the  clearest  weather,  and  when  sailing 
safely  and  prosperously  by,  even  with  time  to  reflect, 
and  to  consult  books  and  charts?  The  hundreds  of 
miles  which  intervene  along  the  Atlantic  border  from  near 
Sandy  llook  to  the  Cape  of  Florida,  present,  with  but 
few  exceptions,  one  uniform  app(!arance:  low  lands  and 
swamps  faced  with  bear  lies,  over  which  a  forest  alone  is 
generally  distinguishable,  with  no  prominent  mountains  or 
conspicuous  capes  to  give  bearings,  and  few  secure  harbours 
to  oflVr  a  refuge.  This  singular  part  of  the  coast,  at  Lonf 
Branch  and  its  vicinity,  extending  for  about  six  miles,  is 
said  to  be  distinguished  by  one  peculiarity,  from  every  other 
part  of  the  seaboard  of  the  United  States.  Here  alone  the 
arable  land  extends  to  the  very  verge  of  Neptune's  domains, 
and  here  are  seen  the  only  corn-fields  whose  outer  rows  are 
salted  by  the  spray  of  the  ocean.  But  this  trait,  however 
agreeable  and  striking  to  the  land  traveller,  and  valuable  Xo 
the  farmer  who  reaps  the  harvests,  affords  little  advantage 
to  the  navigator  in  enabling  him  to  ascertain  his  position. 

How  important  are  some  of  the  devices  which  the  humane 
and  ingenious  have  invented  for  the  rescue  of  their  fellow- 
beings  exposed  to  death  by  shipwreck  !    "  I  have  both  talked 
and  written  to  men  of  influence,"  said  a  plain  farmer  of  thia 
vicinity  to  me,  "  on  the  importance  of  supplying  us  with  the 
means  of  saving  men  from  death,  who  are  every  season 
cast  within  our  view,  in  the  midst  of  perils  which  they  might 
escape  with  our  aid,  if  we  had  a  simple  apparatus  placed  at 
our  command,  by  which  a  rope  might  be  thrown  from  a  gun 
to  a  ship  on  shore."     Itopeated  instances  he  referred  to,  in 
which  crews  had  been  lost  within  a  short  distance  of  the 
land,  in  most,  if  not  all  of  which,  he  felt  confident,  such  an 
apparatus  might  have  been  effectual.     The  result  of  hi* 
remarks  was  to  convince  me,  that  the  subject  is  of  sufficient 
importance  to  justify  the  appropriation  of  a  liberal  sum  of 
money  by  our  government,  to  inquire  for  facts  and  opinions, 
and  to  make  experiments.     If  it  should  be  judged  practica- 
ble, after  this,  another  appropriation  should  be  made  to  carry 

5 


WL~ 


i 

J 


46 


NKW-YORK. 


a  good  plan  into  effect.  Whatever  the  apparatu.s  miglit  be, 
whether  life-lmats  of  the  beat  constriuniun,  or  guns,  or  mor- 
tars for  throwing  ropes,  it  should  be  mounted  on  carriages, 
supplied  with  harness,  and  placed  in  the  charge  of  some 
humane  and  responRil>le  individual,  or  at  the  direction  of  the 
town-authorities.  From  the  interest  felt  by  the  respectable 
inhabitants  of  this  part  of  the  coast,  in  the  safety  of  men, 
and  sometimes  females,  thus  exposed  to  desperate  hazards 
and  sufferings  under  their  eyes,  I  am  persuaded  that  the 
most  laudable  exertions  would  ever  be  made  for  their  safety. 
For  my  own  part,  if  I  were  to  be  shipwrecked,  I  would 
willingly  trust  myself  to  the  care  of  the  hardy  and  humane 
individuals  whom  I  have  known  in  this  vicinity.  Those 
alone  who  have  had  experience  in  the  delicate  task  of  con- 
ducting a  common  boat  through  the  surf  and  over  the 
breakers,  can  now  be  trusted  to  transport  men  to  the  land, 
even  when  the  sea  is  but  in  a  moderate  state  of  agitation ; 
but  if  life-boats  were  at  hand,  other  arms  might  be  employed 
in  an  emergency,  beside  those  of  the  most  skilful  fisher- 
men. 


CHAPTER  VIT. 


New-York — Books — The  Apparatus  of  Literature — Conversations 
with  Booksellers  on  Puhlic  Taste,  &c. — A  Frien  '  returned  from  a 
Tour  to  Europe — Foreign  Feelings  anil  Ignorance  respecting  Ame- 
rica— Varying  aspects  of  the  Streets  of  the  Metropolis — Impressioni 
from  observing  them. 

It  is  strange  to  see  how  much  better  the  public  taste  is 
often  understood  by  booksellers  than  authors ;  and  with 
what  certainty  they  can  sometimes  forctel  the  fate  of  a  book 
after  hearing  only  a  brief  description  of  it,  or  after  glancing 
at  the  table  of  contents  or  the  title-page,  than  the  man 
who  studied  and  laboured  over  the  pages  for  months  or 
years,  and  lay  awake  whole  nights  to  cut  and  piece  it  in 
conformity  with  the  state  of  society.     This  fact,  which  no 


PniNTINO-OFFICES,  &.C. 


47 


the  apparatun  miglit  be, 
riuniun,  or  guns,  or  mor- 
ic  mouiUed  on  carriages, 

in  the  charge  of  some 
or  at  the  direction  of  the 
it  fell  by  the  respectable 
i8t,  in  the  safety  of  men, 
ed  to  desperate  hazards 

am  persuaded  that  the 
be  made  for  their  safety. 
3  shipwrecked,  I  would 
f  the  hardy  and  humane 
n  this  vicinity.  Those 
he  delicate  task  of  con- 
the  surf  and  over  the 
nsport  men  to  the  land, 
lerate  state  of  agitation ; 
irms  might  be  employed 
the  most  skilful  fisher- 


m. 

Liternture — Conversations 
— A  Frien  '  returned  from  a 
I  Ignorance  respecting  Ame- 
Ihe  Metropolis — Inipressioni 


l)etter  the  public  taste  is 
ban  authors ;  and  with 
brctel  the  fate  of  a  book 
n  of  it,  or  after  glancing 
itle-page,  than  the  man 
le  pages  for  months  or 
to  cut  and  piece  it  in 
y.     This  fact,  which  no 


one  can  doubt  after  proper  inquiry,  is  so  much  in  opposition  to 
common  rules  applying  to  other  subjects,  that  I  sought  light 
on  it  while  in  New- York.  We  always  should  expect  to 
find  a  tailor  better  acquainted  with  the  size  of  his  customers* 
shoulders  than  anybody  else,  and  more  likely  to  discover 
whether  a  coat  be  too  narrow  to  lit,  too  long  in  the  sleeves, 
or  too  tight  under  the  arms.  But  it  is  not  so  with  your  author 
and  his  work.  He  deliberates  for  weeks  or  months  upon 
his  subject,  then  upon  his  plan,  then  on  the  size  of  his  book, 
the  mode  and  time  for  its  appearance ;  and  after  having 
fixed  all  tliese,  and  changed  his  intention  over  and  over 
again,  and  at  length  completed  his  work  as  he  finally  deter- 
mines, he  is  the  most  anxious  man  ia  the  nation  till  he 
ascertains  whether  he  has  succeeded  or  failed.  This  he 
now  feels  utterly  unable  to  judge  of,  until  he  has  facts  to 
form  an  opinion  upon,  and  actually  sees  whether  or  not  his 
book  has  sold.  But  not  so  with  the  bookseller.  He  has 
rules,  or  instinct,  or  some  other  guide,  by  which  he  often  can 
judge  of  the  fate  of  a  work,  before  it  has  been  grasped  after 
or  rejected  by  a  single  customer ;  and,  as  if  by  some  secret 
electricity,  a  uniform  presentiment  concerning  a  book  some- 
times pervades  the  whole  trade  from  the  moment  of  its  ap- 
pearance, or  even  from  a  very  early  period  after  its  an- 
nouncement. 

There  are  cases  in  which  they  have  experience  to  refer 
to,  and  then  they  may  prejudge  as  we  might  the  shoemaker, 
who  had  pinched  us  in  the  toes,  and  was  about  to  shoe  a 
neighbour  with  still  larger  feet  than  our  own.  But,  in  the 
great  majority  of  cases,  the  bulk  of  the  booksellers  do  not 
know  the  author,  or  are  not  well  acquainted  with  the  subject 
on  which  he  writes,  or  both,  and  therefore  cannot  judge  of 
what  is  to  come  from  what  has  happened. 

To  show  what  kind  of  satisfaction  I  got  from  some  con- 
versation on  books  during  my  stay  in  New-York,  I  will 
give  a  brief  recapitulation  of  what  I  heard  in  some  of  the 
printing-oflices  and  book-stores.  Some  of  these  are  exceed- 
ingly large  and  rich ;  and  the  grand  review  of  the  whole 
typographic  park  and  batteries  of  the  capital  is  worthy 
of  the  attention  of  an  intelligent  traveller.    The  most  mag. 


NEW-YORK. 


nificent  presses  in  the  world  are  racking  and  groaning  in  a 
hundred  difl'erent  streets,  from  Messrs.  Harper's  mammoth 
power-press  downwards,  lii<e  so  many  mills  for  grinding  the 
wheat,  bran,  and  shorts  with  which  even  the  almost  insatia- 
ble literary  appetite  of  the  Anierinan  public  is  surfeited. 
The  four  or  five  principal  stereotype-foundries  are  also 
very  large  establishments,  some  of  whicli  are  connected 
with  type-foundries,  and  printing-ofHces  of  twenty  and  thirty 
presses. 

"  My  friend,"  said  a  most  intelligent  and  virtuous  South 
American  just  from  Europe,  on  entering  a  spacious  room 
where  two  rows  of  men  were  casting  types  in  the  old  way, 
one  at  a  time;  "my  friend,  despotism  will  never  prevail 
against  us."  On  being  introduced,  however,  into  a  place 
where  twenty  boys,  with  machines,  were  doing  the  work  of 
forty  men,  he  was  lost  in  surprise  and  pleasure,  and  declared 
that  he  almost  pitied  the  poor  despots  who  had  to  contest 
against  liuch  weapons  so  rapidly  forged,  and  so  irresistible. 
The  truth  is,  we  ought  to  exhibit  the  press  to  our  children, 
as  a  machine  little  understood,  and  consequently  much 
abused.  It  would  be  an  improving  lesson  to  every  child  to 
bo  led  to  the  village  printing-office  once  a  year,  and  hear 
comments  on  the  nature,  history,  and  uses  of  this  great  im- 
plement of  civilization,  morality,  and  religion. 

But  to  return  to  book-store  conversation.  "  Have  you 
seen  the  new  number  of  this  magazine  1  It  is  astonishingly 
popular.  The  publisher  had  but  one  course  to  pursue,  and 
he  took  the  right  one.  He  had  not  capital  enough  to  spend 
a  large  sum  at  once,  to  pay  an  editor  of  known  talents,  and 
therefore  could  not  expect  his  support  from  the  learned. 
So  he  got  it  up  as  handsomely  as  he  knew  how,  and  has 
taken  measures  to  have  it  well  puffed  in  the  newspapers. 
The  consequence  is,  that  he  has  had  great  success."  I 
saw  this  publisher;  and  remarked  to  iiim  that  his  merits,  as 
I  had  understood,  were  generally  acknowledged.  Yes,  he 
replied,  he  had  taken  good  care  about  that.  It  would  be  in 
vain,  he  said,  if  any  man  should  expect  his  works  to  be 
esteemed,  if  the  newspapers  did  not  commend  them  over 
and  over  again ;  and  to  secure  this  end  means  must  be  used. 


"1 
pu 
kn 

km 

III 

gre 

wh 

all 

of 

an 

He 

En 

san 

exti 

thoi 

Am 

the 

<i 

pub 

rest 

havi 

At? 

and 

not 

prin 

forn 

they 

esta 

and, 

whi( 

time 

not  ] 

or  e 

to  U! 

than 

and 

didi 

We 

publi 


king  and  groaning  in  a 
<r8.  Harper's  mammoth 
ly  mills  for  grinding  the 
iven  the  almost  insatia- 
an  public  is  surfeited, 
ype-foundrics  are  also 
whicli  are  connected 
es  of  twenty  and  thirty 

ent  and  virtuous  South 
uriiig  a  spacious  room 
r  types  in  the  old  way, 
ism  will  never  prevail 
however,  into  a  place 
vere  doing  the  work  of 
I  pleasure,  and  declared 
lots  who  had  to  contest 
^ed,  and  so  irresistible. 
I  press  to  our  children, 
id  consequently  much 
Bsson  to  every  child  to 
mce  a  year,  and  hear 
uses  of  this  great  im- 
religion. 

ersation.  "  Have  you 
el  It  is  astonishingly 
course  to  pursue,  and 
apital  enough  to  spend 
of  known  talents,  and 
)ort  from  the  learned. 
!  knew  how,  and  has 
id  in  the  newspapers, 
ad  great  success."  I 
iiim  that  his  merits,  as 
inowledjed.  Yes,  he 
t  that.  It  would  be  in 
pect  his  works  to  be 
;  commend  them  over 
d  means  must  be  used. 


CONVERSATIONS  WITH  BOOKSELLERS. 


49 


•'  If  I  should  lie  down  under  my  counter,  and  expect  the 
public  to  give  me  credit  for  my  merits,  they  would  never 
know  or  care  whether  I  had  any  or  not.  They  would  not 
know  whether  it  was  a  man  or  a  dog  there  in  the  dark.  So 
I  have  given  my  numbers  as  good  an  appearance  and  as 
great  a  variety  as  possible,  and  now  shall  be  able  to  do 
what  I  please,  with  surh  patiwnage  as  I  enjoy."  I  expressed 
a  hope  that  his  periodical  would  soon  aim  "to  exceed  the  best 
of  its  class  in  otlier  countries.  Yes,  he  hoped  it  would  be 
an  honour  to  our  own,  by  having  no  superior  in  the  world. 
He  had  taken  great  puins  to  get  such  paper  as  is  used  in 
England,  and  was  to  put  a  cover  on  the  next  number  of  the 

same  colour  and  devices  as  the  London ,  which  was 

extremely  elegant,  and  universally  admired.  Literature, 
thought  I,  has  abundant  reason  to  smile  at  her  prospects  in 
America,  or  rather  to  laugh  at  them  !  Lucky  that  none  of 
the  foreign  tourists  were  present  to  tell  this  story  abroad ! 

"  You  may  blame  us  as  much  as  you  please,"  said  another 
publisher ;  "  I  have  no  more  public  spirit,  perhaps,  than  the 
rest  of  my  cralt,  but  I  have  at  least  no  objection  to  my  books 
having  real  merit,  or  to  their  being  written  by  Americans. 
At  any  rate,  I  have  made  some  exertions  to  secure  both, 
and  paid  a  good  deal  of  money.  But  all  the  blame  does 
not  rest  with  us.  We  must  sell  our  books,  or  we  must  stop 
printing :  that  is  very  clear.  If  then  there  is  nobody  to  in- 
form  the  public  of  the  merits  of  different  works,  how  wiU 
they  ever  know  them?  You  literary  gentlemen  do  not 
establish  reviews  in  which  the  public  place  much  confidence, 
and,  what  is  worse,  you  do  not  read  one  half  the  books 
which  appear  while  they  are  fresh,  as  you  say,  for  want  of 

time.     You  must  settle  that  with  your  consciences I  da 

not  pretend  to  judge  you.  You  will  not  attempt  to  improve 
or  even  to  direct  public  taste,  and  have  left  it  to  itself  and 
to  us.  Now  judge  whether  we  have  done  our  duty  better 
than  yourselves  or  not.  We  had  to  begin  with  a  low  taste, 
and  have  had  to  raise  it,  if  it  has  been  raised.  Well,  we 
did  it  in  what  we  believe  to  be  the  only  way  in  our  power. 
We  have  always  endeavoured  to  print  as  good  books  as  the 
public  could  be  brought  to  read,  and  have  more  than  once 

5* 


NEW-YORK. 


overshot  our  mark,  perhaps,  wUliout  ever  fulling  below  it. 
The  result  thus  far  has  hcen  a  perceptible  and  general  im- 
provement in  eerlnin  classes  of  books;  and  as  we  are 
encouraged  in  pursuing  our  course,  we  intend  to  persist  in  it, 
and  hope  to  sec  still  more  important  results. 

"  But  to  give  you  an  idea,"  continued  the  bookseller,  "  of 
the  form  and  circumstances  under  which  public  taste  ap- 
pears to  our  craft.  A  publisher,  perhaps,  pays  a  young  man 
who  has  a  profi-ssion  and  leisure  a  hundred  dollars  to  make 
a  volume  of  newspaper  scraps,  and  put  some  odd  name  to 
it:  or  he'll  meet  wiili  a  manuscript  of  the  Adventures  of 
Timothy  Terrible,  or  some  oilier  well-known  individual, 
and  will  bargain  with  the  author  for  it.  By  the  time  it 
has  been  out  a  fortnight,  we  have  orders  for  the  whole 
edition,  and  half  another.  A  correspondent  writes  from  the 
South, — The  fifty  Timothy  T.  received,  and  please  send  us 
seventy-five  more.  From  the  North  we  get, — Please  send, 
on  receipt  of  this,  one  hundred  copies  of  Tim.  Terrible. 
— P.S.   By  first  boat. 

"  Well,  we  think  we'll  try  a  little  more  American  literature, 
as  that  appears  to  be  rising.  Come,  we'll  give  'em  some- 
thing a  little  solid.  So  we  come  out,  we  will  suppose,  with 
a  learned  work  on  the  History,  ('haracter,  and  Condition  of 
the  Crim  Tartars,  past,  present,  ami  to  come ;  and  almost 
simultaneously  with  the  Iiife  and  Writings  of  General  Some- 
body, one  of  the  greatest  men  in  our  Republican  history, 
the  property  of  the  nation.  For  each  of  these  we'll  suppose 
we  pay  eight  hundred  dollars, — cash,  you  understand. 
W^ell,  our  customers,  in  about  ten  days,  begin  to  write, — 
Send  us  no  more  Generals  or  Crim  Tartars.  They  don't 
go  down. — N.B.  Too  dry  and  too  true.  Gentlemen,  we 
■end  you  back  forty-nine  Crim  Tartars  and  all  the  Generals. 
They  don't  suit  our  market.  Now  mind,  here's  two  octavo 
volumes:  investment  on  eacii  about  three  thousand,  yes, 
thirty-five  hundred  dollars,  including  copy-right.  Well,  they 
are  good  books,  tliat  is,  so  people  say ;  and  they  sell  easy 
along,  one  here  and  one  there.  But  here  comes  in  old 
Squire  Jones,  or  Colonel  West,  or  some  such  gentleman,  and 
takes  one  of  these  books.    •  Well,'  he  says,  'here's  a  work 


CONVERSATION  WITH  BOOKSELLERS. 


61 


,  ever  falling  below  it. 
ceptible  -.itui  gcncrul  im- 
ooks ;  and  as  wc  are 
va  intend  to  persist  in  it, 
I  results, 
nied  the  bookseller,  "  of 

wliiuh  public  taste  ap- 
haps,  pays  a  young  man 
uindred  dollars  to  make 
J  put  some  odd  name  to 
pt  of  the  Adventures  of 

well-known  individual, 
for  it.  By  the  time  it 
;  orders  for  the  whole 
pondent  writes  from  the 
ived,  and  please  send  us 
I)  wc  get, — Please  send, 
opies  of  Tim.  Terrible. 

(lore  American  literature, 
ne,  we'll  give  'em  some- 
it,  we  will  suppose,  with 
iracter,  and  Condition  of 
(I  to  come ;  and  almost 
ritings  of  General  Some- 
our  Republican  history, 
;li  of  these  we'll  suppose 
-cash,  you  understand. 
I  days,  begin  to  write, — 
m  Tartars.  They  don't 
)  true.  Gentlemen,  we 
tars  and  all  the  Generals, 
mind,  here's  two  octavo 
ut  three  thousand,  yes, 
;  copy-right.  Well,  they 
say ;  and  they  sell  easy 
But  here  comes  in  old 
ime  such  gentleman,  and 
he  says,  'here's  a  work 


I'm  glad  to  see.  I  know  the  author,  sir,  and  he's  a  man  of 
sterling  merit.  Why  I  knew  him  wiien  your  father  was  so 
high.  Yes,  sir,  that  book  oiight  to  sell — it  will  sell— don't 
you  find  it  so  V  »  Why,  yes,  colonel,  I  sujiposc  it  would,  if 
everybody  had  your  penetration.  How  many  shall  I  send 
you  V  '  Oh,  oh,  why,  I  don't  know,  1  have  no  time  to  read 
just  now;  but  perhaps  I'll  call  in  some  time  when  1  have. 
I  suppose  I  can  get  it  any  day  this  month,  can't  I  V  ♦  Yet, 
I'm  afraid  so,  or  next  year  either.'  Well,  Dr.  Siudioui 
expresses  his  pleasure  at  the  appearance  of  a  book  so  pro- 
found on  the  Crim  Tartars.  'Come  here,  sir,  I'll  sit 
down  and  tell  you  what  I  know  about  the  author  and  hii 
faithful  investigations  into  his  subject.'  'Why,  doctor,' 
says  1,  'I  think  you  had  better  road  the  book,  and  give  me 
a  short  pithy  recommendation  of  it  for  the  information  of  the 
public.  My  own  opinion  is  already  made  up.'  '  Why, 
sir,'  says  the  doctor,  '  1  have  a  share  in  a  library,  where  I 
expect  to  find  it ;  and  if  I  shoidd  want  it,  perhaps  youll 
have  a  cheaper  edition  by-and-by.' 

"  Now  so  it  goes  ;  and  while  I'm  talking  with  one  of  the 
learned  gentlemen,  two  or  three  men  come  in,  and  want 
eight  or  ten  Timothy  Teiribles  a  piece ;  and  the  amount  of 
it  is,  that  while  we  must  wait  two  or  perhaps  three  years  to 
get  a  profit  of  six  or  seven  hundred  dollars  on  an  investment 
of  thirty-five  hundred,  in  six  months  we  run  off  two  edition* 
of  a  work  that  we've  got  up  for  six  hundred  dollars  each, 
and  have  cleared,  perhaps,  a  thousand,  besides  the  stereo- 
type-plates ready  for  more.  Encouraging  solid  literature 
and  American  authors  is  a  good  thing  to  »alk  about,  it  sounds 
very  well ;  and  I  should  like  much  to  practise  it  more  and 
more.  It  is  easy  to  say,  O,  its  all  the  publisher's  fault, — 
you've  no  business  to  print  such  trash,  and  you  should  not 
go  out  of  the  country  so  much  for  books.  But  here  you 
see  are  the  facts.  Now  what  are  you  going  to  do  in  such 
a  case  ? 

"  Go  and  ask  the  learned  and  the  good,  the  intelligent 
and  the  influential,  why  they  can't  take  the  trouble  to 
examine  works  as  they  appear,  or  before,  and  let  their 
countrymen  know  which  are  good  and  which  bad.     A  few 


02 


KKW-VOHK. 


just  commenilalions  would  senl  the  success  of  good  worku 
and  ftoinl  writers,  now  overlooked  and  unknown  ;  and  a  few 
good  death-blows  against  bad  books  would  kill,  along  with 
the  works,  their  authors,  and  perhaps  the  taste  which  sua- 
tains  them." 

"  I  want  ten  Timothy  Terrible,"  said  a  customer,  inter- 
rupting the  speaker.  "  Excuse  me,  sir,"  said  he,  breaking 
ofl',  "  lur  talking  so  long  about  this  m:ittcr.  I  only  want  to 
let  you  understand  that  it  is  not  all  the  fault  of  the  book- 
sellers.    Hadn't  you  better  take  twenty  copies,  sir  1" 

An  intelligent,  pure,  and  warm-heurted  IViend,  just  landed 
from  Europe,  grasped  my  hand  at  a  corner.  Amid  the  bustle 
of  iiroadway,  he  had  recognised  my  countenance ;  and  out 
of  the  thousands  of  names  which  must  have  struck  his  cars 
since  we  had  met,  he  found  mine  ready  on  his  tongue,  like 
one  still  near  his  heart.  V\  hat  feelings  such  a  meeting  ex- 
cites. How  gratifying  to  find  such  a  friend,  though  changed, 
yet  the  same.  His  observant  eyes,  how  much  they  must 
have  seen ;  his  discriminating  and  original  mind,  how  much 
it  must  have  accomplished  in  dividing  the  gold  from  the 
dross ;  his  rich  memory,  how  its  stores  must  have  been 
enlarged !  His  grasp  and  his  eye  told  how  foreign  scenes 
had  warmed  his  heart  fur  home,  and  assured  me  that  I  had 
a  key  to  all  its  treasures. 

"  The  view  I  have  taken  of  Europe,"  said  h*,  "  has  put 
my  mind  into  new  trains  of  thought,  in  which  I  have  been 
indulging  during  my  voyage  homeward.  And  what  a  com- 
panion is  the  sea,  what  associates  are  the  waves  and  storms 
for  one  who  is  occupied  with  subjects  of  interest  and  im- 
portance !  The  United  States,  imperfectly  known  as  they 
are,  exercise  a  most  powerful  sway  upon  the  most  influential 
minds  of  Europe.  They  constantly  contemplate  us,  and 
admire  and  hope,  through  a  crooked  glass  and  misty  air. 
Their  views  are  very  imperfect;  their  conceptions  crude 
and  often  erroneous  ;  and  wc  have  as  much  reason,  perhaps, 
to  regret  the  over-estimates  made  of  us  on  some  points,  as 
the  oversight  of  our  advantages  or  merits  on  others.  I  regret 
to  say  that  the  best  informed  men  of  Britain  appear,  so  far 
as  I  can  speak  from  knowledge,  exceedingly  ilL  acquainted 


e  success  of  good  work* 
ind  unknown  ;  and  a  few 
kn  would  kill,  along  with 
iips  the  tiiste  which  rus- 

snid  a  customer,  inter- 
le,  sir,"  said  he,  breuking 
>  mutter.  I  only  want  to 
nil  the  fault  of  the  book- 
fi'tuy  copies,  sir  V 
curtcd  I'ricnd,  just  landed 

corner.  Amid  the  bustle 
ly  countenance  ;  and  out 
nust  have  struck  his  ears 
ready  on  his  tongue,  like 
ilings  such  a  meeting  ex< 
a  friend,  though  changed, 
8,  how  much  they  must 
original  mind,  how  much 
iding  the  gold  from  the 

stores  must  have  been 

told  how  foreign  scenes 
id  assured  me  that  I  had 

rope,"  said  he,  "  has  put 
ht,  in  which  I  have  been 
rard.  And  what  a  com- 
ire  the  waves  and  storms 
jects  of  interest  and  im- 
perfectly known  as  they 

upon  the  most  influential 
tly  contemplate  us,  and 
led  glass  and  misty  air. 

their  conceptions  crude 
as  much  reason,  perhaps, 
of  us  on  some  points,  as 
nerits  on  others.  I  regret 
of  Britain  appear,  so  far 
xceedingly  ill  acquainted 


rOREION  VIEWS  or  AMERICA. 


03 


with  the  geography  as  wril  a.  the  institutions  and  state  of 
society  m  thiH  country.     \Vc  are,  indeed,  perhaps,  too  nmch 
mchned  to  be  surprised  at  (his  an.l  to  pity  it.     We  converse 
of  England  with  every  advantage,  because  our  very  school- 
books,  as  well  as  our  libraries,  were  Lngli.h,  until  vvithin  our 
own  recollection  ;  and  many  of  us  in  our  earliest  years  were 
taught  more  of  ih«ir  history,  geography,  biography,  an.l  even 
ecclc8.asi.cal  an.l  political  aflairs,  tha..  of  our  own.    Hut  their 
course  ..   education,  in  all  its  grades,  has  little  more  refer- 
ence to  America  than  it  had  before  Columbus  sailed  from 
Spam.     1  he.r  instructors  want  teaching  before  Ihey  can  be 
competent  on  this  branch  of  knowledge;  and  whence  then 
18  It  possible  lor  the  people  to  be  well  informed  of  our  con- 
dition  ?     Our  tea.^hers,  on  the  contrary,  our  fathers  and  our 
countrymen,  until  recently,  have  directed  almost  all  their 
attent.on  to  foreign   lands,  and  rea.l  only  foreign  books. 
When  therefore  .nte lligeni  men  in  England,  Scotland,  and 
Ireland  expressed    their   surprise   at   my  familiarity  with 
Lnghsh  books  and  men,  the  geography  and  scenery  of  the 
country,  I  could  not  but  feel  that  they  over-estimated  it, 
Americl  '='""'^»'«<1  "  ^'i"'  'heir  own  ignorance  of 

"  VVe  ought  to  exert  ourselves  more  than  we  do  to  inform 
our  Luropean  brethren  concerning  our  country  and  our- 
selves,  to  remove  erroneous  impressions,  and  prevent  their 
failing  into  new  mistakes.     But  how  shall  this  bo  done? 
ui   r%v!"'l  ''"""   ""'  periodical  publications  or  our 
books?     Which  ol  them  would  do  us  justice,  and  at  the 
same  time  be  instructive  to  ihem  ?     In  far  too  many  of  our 
writers  an  affectation  of  foreign  sentiments  and  foreign  style 
removes  every  American  feature  from  their  productions,  while 
m  others  the  perverted  views  and  degraded  language  of  the 
low  level  from  which  they  have  lately  risen  would  at  once 
mislead  and  disgust  a  person  seeking  for  information  con- 
cern.ng  our  sta.e  and  society.     Some  publications  we  have 
of  an  elevated  tone,  and  a  just  and  commanding  influence  at 
home  and  abroad.    But  these  are  either  scientific  or  devoted 
to  literature  in  general,  or  at  least  so  much  more  designed 
for  the  use  of  ourselves  than  of  others,  that  they  would  not 


54 


NEW-YORK. 


■erve  their  purpose.  Foreigners  are  ignorant  of  the  very 
elements  of  our  society.  They  need  to  know  the  indi- 
viduals of  whom  it  is  composed,  and  comprehend  the  mutual 
action  and  reaction  of  domestic  life  and  the  public  institu- 
tions. They  can  neither  conjecture  at  the  application  of 
our  laws  to  our  circumstances,  nor  understand  what  were 
the  circumstances  which  required  them  ;  much  less  can  they 
explain  the  effects  which  are  produced.  They  wonder  at 
us,  as  at  a  new  specimen  of  mechanism ;  and  our  country 
excites  as  ill-defiaed  admiration  as  did  the  ship  May-flower 
among  the  Indians  of  Massachusetts  Bay,  when  the  Pilgrims 
arrived  on  the  coast.  They  are  slow  to  ascertain  the 
causes  of  its  motion,  and  never  can  resolve  the  forces  by 
which  it  is  impelled.  Still,  here  is  the  object  constantly 
before  them  ;  and  tlie  more  they  gaze  the  more  they  are  in- 
terested. Now  I  do  not  see  how  they  are  to  be  taught, 
otherwise  than  as  an  apprentice  learns  his  trade.  Familiar- 
ize them  with  the  ordinary  details,  as  we  are  familiarized 
with  our  own  society  in  childhood.  Do  we  not  understand 
Scottish  life  at  different  periods  of  history,  through  the  familiar 
scenes  presented  by  Scott,  better  than  we  could  learn  them 
from  almost  any  investigation  we  might  make  into  history 
and  legislation  1  Let  some  of  their  intelligent  men  come 
and  spend  months  in  our  families,  conforming  to  the  customs 
of  the  people,  and  observing,  without  preconceived  opinions, 
how  society  goes  on.  After  sufficient  attention  to  the 
practical  operation  of  our  system,  they  would  be  able  to 
enlighten  others  in  the  grammar  of  our  society.  Until  this, 
or  some  equally  simple  and  sensible  measure  shall  be 
adopted,  we  siiall  be  overrated  by  some,  underrated  by 
many,  and  annually  inspected  by  tourists,  who  will  by  turns 
make  us  laughing-stocks  and  objects  of  disgust  to  ourselves 
and  others. 

"  But,  seriously,  this  subject  has  struck  me  with  much 
force.  All  misrepresentations  of  us  are  injurious  at  home 
and  abroad.  It  is  of  immense  consequence  to  the  world, 
that  all  mankind  should  see  what  we  know  of  the  success 
with  which  political,  civil,  and  religious  liberty  have  been  put 
to  in  effectual,  harmonious,  and  most  happy  operation  among 


us. 

thej 
of  a 
cnal 
is  n 
gree 
and 
resp 
lear 
stat( 
priv 
exis 
diffu 
kno\ 


Ne 


N 
only 
earil 
&c., 
are 
abroi 
genti 
frieni 
show 
tries 
housi 
sketc 
come 
heard 
and  a 


FOREIGN  RESIDENTS. 


55 


I  are  ignorant  of  the  very 
r  need  to  know  the  indi- 
and  comprehend  the  mutual 

life  and  the  public  institu- 
cture  at  the  application  of 
nor  understand  what  were 

them  ;  much  less  can  they 
reduced.  They  wonder  at 
L-hanism;  and  our  country 
as  did  the  ship  May-flower 
etts  Bay,  when  the  Pilgrims 
are  slow  to  ascertain  the 
r  can  resolve  the  forces  by 
e  is  the  object  constantly 

gaze  the  more  they  are  in- 
)w  they  are  to  be  taught, 
learns  hia  trade.  Familiar- 
lils,  as  we  are  familiarized 
)d.  Do  we  not  understand 
'history,  through  the  familiar 
r  than  we  could  learn  them 
e  might  make  into  history 
their  intelhgent  men  come 
,  conforming  to  the  customs 
bout  preconceived  opinions, 
sufficient  attention  to  the 
!m,  they  would  be  able  to 
of  our  society.  Until  this, 
lensible  measure  shall  be 
i  by  some,  underrated  by 
r  tourists,  who  will  by  turns 
jects  of  disgust  to  ourselves 

has  struck  me  with  much 
}f  us  are  injurious  at  home 
consequence  to  the  world, 
it  we  know  of  the  success 
ligious  liberty  have  been  put 
nost  happy  operation  among 


us.  They  ought  to  know,— what  they  certainly  would  if 
they  knew  us  well, — that  all  men  may  live  in  the  enjoyment 
of  a  similar  state  of  society,  whenever  circumstances  shall 
enable  them  to  try  it.  They  would  see,  too,  that  our  system 
is  not  necessarily  unfriendly  to  learning  in  any  of  its  de- 
grees; that  influence  is  not  necessarily  denied  to  the  good 
and  allowed  to  the  bad  ;  that  the  tendency  of  things  in  any 
respect  is  not  to  degradation.  On  the  contrary,  they  would 
learn  that  knowledge  and  virtue,  being  incHspcnsable  to  the 
state,  and  vice  and  debasement  of  every  kind  dangerous  to 
private,  because  to  public  interests,  the  strongest  motives 
exist  in  such  a  country  to  cultivate  the  purest  virtue,  and  to 
diffuse  the  utmost  knowledge,  while  facilities,  before  un- 
known, are  daily  offered  for  the  propagation  of  both. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

New- York  continued— Foreign  Residents  and  Visiters^Foreiim 
Books. 

New- York  is,  indeed,  multum  in  parvo,  and  contains  not 
only  individuals  from  most  of  the  travelling  nations  of  the 
earth,  but  societies  of  French,  Spaniards,  Germans,  Italians, 
&c.,  of  considerable  extent.  For  these  and  others  there 
are  particular  haunts.  It  is  no  longer  necessary  to  go 
abroad  to  see  the  habits  of  Europeans  :  by  proper  means,  a 
gentleman  may  procure  an  introduction  to  respectable  and 
friendly  foreign  residents,  whose  domestic  arrangements 
show  much  of  the  peculiarities  of  their  respective  coun- 
tries ;  while  at  several  boarding-houses,  hotels,  and  eating- 
houses,  by  taking  a  single  meal,  you  m;iy  get  a  lively 
sketch  of  several  distant  (sountries  at  a  time.  The  latest 
comers  from  Europe  and  Asia  are  generally  to  be  seen  or 
heard  of  at  Delmoiiico's  in  the  course  of  «  ordinary"  hours; 
and  a  person  has  only  to  keep  his  eyes  and  ears  open  to  get 


66 


NEW-YORK. 


some  of  the  ideas  they  bring  with  tliem  of  the  countenance, 
dress,  language,  manners,  and  habits  of  many  of  his  brethren 
of  the  human  race  whom  he  will  never  see.  Now  and  then 
an  indiviilual  may  be  found  aiiung  our  countrymen  who 
takes  peculiar  pleasure  in   bringing  such  peculiaritiea  to 

light. 

Such  was  an  old  bachelor  I  could  name,  of  an  apparently 
ascetic  character,  who  always  looks  grave,  and  never 
smiles.  He  is  very  thin,  with  a  sour  look,  and  goes 
wrapped  up  carefully  to  the  ears,  so  that  he  seems  to  be 
always  cold,  let  the  weather  be  never  so  pleasant,  and 
displeased  even  if  things  go  on  never  so  well.  He  takes 
pains  to  draw  toreigiiers  into  conversation  by  using  some 
word  in  their  language  in  speaking  to  a  waiter;  and, 
though  he  cannot  speak  a  sentence  in  any  foreign  tongue, 
with  attentive  looks  and  occasional  grunts  and  nods,  makes 
them  suppose  he  comprehends  all  they  say,  and  will  some- 
limes  sit  and  hear  one  talk  a  half  hour  without  betraying 
his  ignorance  of  what  is  spoken. 

Others,  and  more  rational  men,  I  have  known,  who  liked 
occasionally  to  resort  to  such  places  to  familiarize  them- 
selves with  the  languages  and  habits  of  different  countries. 
This  may  be  made  a  useful  practice ;  for  as  the  mind  im- 
proves by  exercise,  so  does  the  heart  by  expanding  its  feel- 
ings, and  indulging  benevolence  towards  many  and  various 
subjects.  No  one  can  spend  a  few  moments  in  the  society 
of  intelligent  and  virtuous  foreigners,  without  strongly  real- 
izing that  the  study  of  man  is  to  be  pursued  among  our 
species,  and  not  in  a  library.  There  is  often  great  expo- 
sure to  the  youth  in  bringing  him  into  contact  unguardedly 
with  all  foreigners  he  may  meet ;  but  if  he  is  to  be  taught 
living  languages,  1  would  by  all  means  put  him  among  per- 
sons of  pure  character  who  speak  them,  that  he  might  apply 
his  views  to  a  legitimate  object,  viz.  the  acquisition  of  valu- 
able facts. 

One  is  not  likely  to  realize  the  number  of  books  in  foreign 
languages  annually  demanded  in  our  couiiTy,  until  he  sur- 
veys such  of  the  stores  as  are  principally  devoted  to  the 
sale  of  them.     Compared  with  floods  of  our  own  books,  it 


IS 

iiu 
ar( 
it  I 
mi 

pii 
(hi 

ral 
'I'l 

gil 
for 
gai 


ii: 


tin 
to 
to 
ev( 

boi 
bci 
wc 
wo 
slu 
be, 
nal 
ful 
to 

CV( 

as 
th£ 
tin 


hem  of  the  countenance, 
J  of  many  of  his  brethren 
!vcr  see.  Now  and  then 
ig  our  countrymen  who 
ig  such  peculiarities  to 

J  name,  of  an  apparently 
ooks  grave,  and  never 
a  sour  look,  and  goes 
so  that  he  seems  to  be 
never  so  pleasant,  and 
lever  so  well.  He  takes 
versation  by  using  some 
king  to  a  waiter;  and, 
ce  in  any  foreign  tongue, 
I  grunts  and  nods,  makes 
tliey  say,  and  will  some- 
If  hour  without  betraying 

I  have  known,  who  liked 
;ices  to  familiarize  them- 
its  of  different  countries, 
ce;  for  as  the  mind  im- 
art  by  expanding  its  feel- 
(wards  many  and  various 
w  moments  in  the  society 
•rs,  without  strongly  real- 
)  be  pursued  among  our 
riiere  is  often  great  expo- 
into  contact  unguardedly 
but  if  he  is  to  be  taught 
eans  put  him  among  per- 
them,  that  he  might  apply 
z.  the  acquisition  of  valu- 

iumber  of  books  in  foreign 
jur  coun'ry,  until  he  sur- 
principally  Jevoted  to  the 
lods  of  our  own  books,  it 


FOREION  HOOKS. 


ft7 


is  true  thoy  form  hut  a  tsniall  stream  ;  but  yet  they  are  more 
immcrous  ilian  would  be  supposed.  It  is  a  pity  that  there 
are  among  ilu-m  so  many  of  tlie  vicious  I'rench  novels ;  but 
it  might  be  expected  that  the  injudicious  instruction  of  so 
many  of  our  youth  in  a  language,  which  is  improperly  re- 
garded by  many  parents  as  a  merely  ornamental  accom- 
piishinent,  without  any  care  being  taken  to  make  it  an  intro- 
(hiction  to  prolitaI)le  associates  or  useful  books,  Mould  natu- 
rally lead  too  many  to  dangerous  sources  of  amusement. 
'J'lie  truth  probably  is,  that  many  a  Trench  author,  unintelli- 
gible to  the  parent,  is  in  the  hands  of  a  ciiild  whose  fondness 
for  it  arises  from  a  less  commendaliie  source  than  a  love  of 
gaining  knowledge.  O,  this  business  of  learning  modern 
languages  is  full  of  abuses.  One  abuse,  however,  some- 
times prevents  a  greater  one.  It  is  a  comfort,  in  this  view, 
to  redect,  that  probably  not  one  in  ten  of  those  who  pretend 
to  learn  French  ever  reads  it ;  and  not  one  in  fifty,  perhaps, 
ever  speaks  it. 

A  great  deal  of  scirn(!e  comes  into  the  country  in  French 
books,  and  our  ])hysicians  are,  to  a  good  extent,  I  believe, 
benefited  by  it,  and  of  course  the  people.  F'rom  Germany 
we  new  import  a  great  many  Greek,  Latin,  and  Hebrew 
works  at  very  low  prices,  so  that  multitudes  of  instructers, 
students,  and  private  gentlemen  are,  and  many  more  may 
be,  furnished  with  classics,  and  the  (Scriptures,  in  their  origi- 
nals, for  moderate  sums,  which  would  have  been  most  cheer- 
fully paid  i)y  some  of  my  friends  in  years  past,  and  sufficed 
to  fill  libraries  which  were  unforiunately  too  empty.  When- 
ever Hebrew,  Greek,  and  Latin  shall  be  as  generally  taught, 
as  easily  learnt,  and  as  practically  used  .;s  they  may  be, 
the  supply  of  this  branch  of  literature  must  be  swelled  many 
times  iieyond  its  present  bounds. 

The  French  and  (Jennaii  novels  form  a  pernicious  mass 
of  books,  of  vast  amount,  annually  disgorged  by  the  press, 
upon  a  world  that  is  reiulcred  the  more  tridy  poor  the  richer 
it  is  in  such  productions.  The  (Jerman  light  literature  (as 
it  is  called),  thanks  to  their  sublimated  and  ghost-making 
brain.s,  is  so  strange  and  uncouth  that  it  can  scarcely  be 
brought  to  touch  this  world,  and  therefore  produces  but  little 

6 


88 


NEW-YORK. 


T 


direct  evil  influence  upon  men's  lives.  Their  novels  tend  to 
draw  ofT  the  mind  to  "  nonentities  and  quiddities ;"  and  as 
it  is  chiefly  objects  of  sense  which,  when  improperly  pre- 
sented, tend  to  evil,  tiicie  is  a  negative  advantage  in  those 
ridiculous  phantasies  which  possess  no  positive  excellence. 
To  look  at  the  machinery  of  such  works,  you  might  think 
them  weapons  raised  to  afllict  the  world  ;  but  they  are  so 
crooked  and  wavering  in  the  hand,  that  it  is  but  seldom  they 
can  be  made  to  hit  it  to  injure.  Their  writers  waste  time, 
it  is  true,  for  their  readers  ;  and  l)y  removing  the  enclosiires 
and  land-marks  of  probability  and  connnon  sense,  turn 
minds,  like  cattle,  into  estrays ;  but  still  they  do  not  infu- 
riate and  madden  them  as  the  novel-writers  of  France. 
Many  of  these  are  notoriously  vicious  and  corrupting 
at  the  present  day;  for  coming  down  to  society  as  it  is, 
packing  off  ghosts,  and  releasing  virtues,  vices,  and  epithets 
from  tlie  personifications  in  which  they  have  been  bound  by 
the  Germans,  they  lead  up  the  most  corrupt  characters, 
arrayed  in  attractive  garbs,  and  think  that  whoever  can 
sugar  over  the  blackest  fiend  can  make  the  best  book. 
Booksellers  themselves,  who  deal  out  such  works  to  our 
public,  sometimes  shudder,  like  apothecaries,  at  the  deadly 
nature  of  their  poisonous  wares. 

I  visited  a  vessel  just  from  Scotland,  with  about  one  hun- 
dred and  fifty  passengers ;  and,  oh !  the  inquiries  concern- 
ing friends,  and  news,  and  luggage,  and  children, — all  in  a 
broad  dialect!  And  then  the  groups  of  Swiss  and  German 
emigrants  who  move  about  in  strange  raiment,  generally 
taking  the  middle  of  the  streets,  in  Indian  file,  gazing,  but, 
i'rom  their  frequency,  no  longer  a  gazing-stock — cocked  hats, 
long  queues,  breeches  justified  on  round  their  haunches,  as 
if  never  to  come  off.  I  have  heard  people  complain  in  this 
country  of  what  "  poor  folks"  must  do.  But  in  Europe 
they  find,  througli  necessity,  they  can  do  ten  times  more.  I 
saw  one  day  a  crowd  in  the  street,  caused  by  a  momentary 
obstruction.  I  examined  it  in  passing,  and  found  that  an 
Alsatian  woman,  with  a  monstrous  bundle  upon  i.^r  head, 
and  an  infant  in  her  arms,  had  suddenly  stopped  to  pin  the 
frock  of  one  of  the  children  who  were  accompanying  her ; 


.  Their  novels  tend  to 
nd  quiddities  ;"  and  as 

when  improperly  prc- 
ivc  advantage  in  those 

no  positive  excellence, 
orks,  you  might  think 
*'orld  ;  but  they  are  so 
lat  it  is  but  seldom  they 
lieir  writers  waste  time, 
enioving  the  enclosiires 
1  connnon  sense,  turn 
t  still  they  do  not  inl'u- 
>vel-writers  of  France, 
'icious  and  corrupting 
ivn  to  society  as  it  is, 
tues,  vices,  and  epithets 
ley  have  been  bound  by 
ost  corrupt  characters, 
link   that  whoever  can 

make  the  best  book. 
3ut  such  works  to  our 
thecaries,  at  the  deadly 

nd,  with  about  one  hun- 
i  the  inquiries  conccrn- 
,  and  children, — all  in  a 
s  of  Swiss  and  German 
mge  raiment,  generally 

Indian  tile,  gazing,  but, 
ing-stock — cocked  hats, 
ound  their  haunches,  as 

people  complain  in  this 
St  do.  But  in  Europe 
n  do  ten  times  more.  1 
caused  by  a  momentary 
sing,  and  found  that  an 

bundle  upon  i.^r  head, 
lenly  stopped  to  pin  the 
fere  accompanying  her ; 


T 


SCENE  FROM  BROOKLYN. 


69 


and  this  she  at  length  effected  with  all  her  embarrassments, 
and  proceeded  as  if  it  were  no  extraordinary  thing. 

When  we  observe  the  movements  of  men  near  at  hand, 
the  motives  of  their  exertions  and  the  results  in  which  they 
end  often  excite  our  latighter ;  while,  if  wo  contemplate  them 
from  a  distance,  and  especially  in  large  bodies,  there  is 
often  sometliing  impressive  ami  even  exalted  in  the  emotions 
wliich  we  experience.  The  very  greatness  of  the  mass, 
like  the  mountain  or  the  sea,  swells  the  mind  whicii  embraces 
it,  and  keeps  its  faculties,  like  so  many  arms  and  hands,  in 
a  state  of  tension,  which,  if  not  distressing,  is  at  least  so  tire- 
some as  to  remove  all  disposition  to  ridicide.  When  we 
descend  to  some  little  sid)ject,  the  mind  finds  its  powers  in 
a  great  measure  unoccupied ;  and  as  this  is  an  unnatural 
state,  it  seeks  employment  in  making  deeper  investigations 
and  new  combinations,  which,  in  the  case  of  a  subject 
abounding  ii  such  self-contradictions  and  unreasonableness 
as  man,  must  inevitably  lead  one  to  pity  and  another  to  ridi- 
cule. Historians  and  warriors  understand  this  matter,  and 
endeavour  to  keep  the  eye  of  the  world  or  of  posterity  fixed 
upon  men  in  masses,  or  on  individual^  at  a  distance.  They 
often  obscure,  conceal,  patch  up,  or  pervert  the  truth,  by 
representing  the  individuals  in  any  thing  but  their  every-day 
dress. 

There  is  much  that  is  ludicrous  in  the  motley  crowds 
rushing  through  Broadway  at  difl'erent  hours ;  but  when  the 
city  is  seen  in  one  view,  the  siglit  is  a  solemn  one.  If  you 
are  called  to  depart,  or  if  you  by  any  chance  arrive,  in  the 
dead  of  night,  the  vacancy  and  siitnce  of  the  streets  are  ex- 
ceedingly impressive.  Two  hundred  and  forty  thousand 
people  obeying  the  laws  of  nature  at  least  in  repose.  The 
dead  of  night,  strictly  speaking,  lasts  but  a  very  siiort  time 
in  the  principal  thoroughfares ;  for  the  termination  of  the 
play  at  about  twelve,  and  of  fashionable  parties  at  one,  keeps 
up  a  rumbling  of  carriages  for  an  hour  or  two,  until  the  most 
remote  routes  have  been  performed,  and  the  horses  are  re- 
turned to  their  stables.  After  tliis  is  over,  half  hours  and 
even  hours  of  almost  total  silence  sometimes  intervene,  while 
the  watchman,  in  the  dome  of  the  City  Ilall,  proclaims  to 


60 


NEW-TORK. 


tho  ears  of  the  sick  and  tlic  watclifiil  tliat  another  day  is 
approaching,  wiiether  desired  or  apprehended  by  them. 

A  cannon  is  fired  at  break  of  day  on  Governor's  Island  ; 
but  before  this  the  lines  of  milk,  l)read,  and  butchers'  carts 
are  in  motion,  and  some  come  rattling  down  the  island  from 
above,  while  others  are  collecting  at  the  ferries  on  the  Long 
Island  and  Jersey  shores,  and  all  are  soon  dinning  tiie  streets. 
From  the  heights  of  Brooklyn  you  may  hear  their  rattling, 
increasing  from  i'eeble  beginnings,  until,  joined  by  the  drays 
proceedhig  from  the  north  to  the  south  part  of  the  city  to 
their  stands,  it  swells  into  an  uniniermitted  roar,  like  the 
sound  of  Niagara  at  Queenston,  to  stop  not  till  midnight. 
Some  time  after  daylight,  while  the  lamps  at  the  steamboat 
docks  are  still  glimmering,  and  those  in  the  streets  which, 
by  mistake,  have  had  oil  enough,  tlie  first  smoke  begins  to 
rise  from  the  houses  of  labourers  in  the  upper  wards.  Some 
five  or  ten  early  risers  are  just  putting  sparks  to  wood  or 
coal ;  and  their  example  is  so  contagious,  that  fires  are 
speedily  blazing  in  every  house  and  almost  every  chimney 
in  the  city.  In  the  cold  season  this  is  a  singular  sight ;  and 
when  the  wind  is  from  the  south  in  the  morning,  the  heavy 
cloud  which  generally  overhangs  the  city  is  blown  north- 
ward, leaving  the  Battery  in  the  light  of  the  sun,  while  many 
of  the  other  parts  are  deeply  obscured.  Soon  after  sunrise, 
floods  of  daily  emigrants  from  the  upper  wards,  meeting  at 
Broadway  and  Canal-street,  pour  down  to  the  wharves,  the 
mechanics'  shops,  and  the  houses  in  building,  many  of  them 
with  convenient  little  tin-kettles,  containing  their  dinners  and 
preparations  for  heating  them,  all  bound  to  their  work. 
Then  come  the  clerks  of  all  degrees,  the  youngest  generally 
first :  and  these,  in  an  hour  or  therebouts,  give  jdace  to  their 
masters,  who  How  down  with  more  dignity,  but  scarcely 
less  speed,  to  the  counting-rooms  of  the  commercial  streets, 
hundreds  of  them,  especially  in  unfavourable  weather,  in  the 
omnibuses,  which  render  tlie  street  so  dangerous  now  and 
at  thrcR  or  four  o'clock  in  the  afternoon.  Ere  these  crowds 
have  disappeared,  they  become  iTosscd  and  mingled  with 
some  of  the  fourteen  thousand  children  who  go  to  the  public 
and  primary  schools  at  nine,  and  an  unknown  number  who 


S 


ifiil  tliat  niiother  dny  is 
irehciulcd  by  them. 
y  oil  Governor's  Island  ; 
cad,  and  buteliers'  carts 
ig  down  the  island  from 
,  the  ferries  on  the  Long 
soon  dinning  tiic  streets. 

may  hear  their  rattling, 
ntii,  joined  by  the  drays 
juth  part  of  the  city  to 
icrmitted  roar,  like  the 
)  stop  not  till  midnight. 

lamps  at  the  steamboat 
se  in  the  streets  which, 
lie  first  smoke  begins  to 
ic  upper  wards.  Some 
Iting  sparks  to  wood  or 
ntagious,  that  fires  are 
I  almost  every  chimney 
is  a  singular  sight ;  and 
tiic  morning,  the  heavy 
he  city  is  blown  north- 
it  of  the  sun,  while  many 
,'d.  Soon  after  sunrise, 
upper  wards,  meeting  at 
jwn  to  the  wharves,  the 
I  building,  many  of  them 
tainiiig  their  dinners  and 

bound  to  their  work. 
I,  the  youngest  generally 
bouts,  give  jilace  to  their 
e  dignity,  but  scarcely 
'  tiie  commercial  streets, 
voiirable  weather,  in  the 

so  dangerous  now  and 
oon.  Ere  these  crowds 
)s<scd  and  mingled  with 
en  wlio  go  to  the  public 
1  unknown  number  who 


DAILV  SCENES. 


ei 


frequent  the  private  schools  of  all  sorts.  Then  are  seen 
also  the  students  of  Columbia  College  and  the  University, 
the  medicals  m  winter  hurrying  to  Barclay-street,  lawyers, 
clients,  and  witnesses  gathering  ai)out  the  City  Hall,  the 
Alarine,  and  Ward  Courts,  with  a  set  of  spectators  generally 
selected  from  those  classes  who  have  been  ruined  by  the 
same  process  which  is  about  to  be  repeated  in  the  name  of 
the  State.  A  burnt  child  dreads  the  fire,  but  a  singed  cat 
loves  the  chimney-corner. 

The  apple-women  and  orange-men  at  St.  Paul's  see  a 
motley  crowd  passing  from  ten  till  twelve ;  and  if  it  be  a 
showery  day,  the  shop-keepers  have  a  good  deal  of  conver- 
sation with  chance  visiters  stepping  in  for  shelter.   After  this. 
If  the  sky  permits  (for  bad  walking  is  but  a  small  objection), 
the  fashionable  promenading  begins  ;  and  the  window-glass 
has  full  employment  in  reflecting  the  forms  and  colours  of 
dresses  which  vary  with  the  moon.     The  movements  of  the 
crowd  are  now  at  common  time,  instead  of  the  double  quick 
step  by  which  the  business-man  is  distinguished.    A  stranger 
would  tiiink  that  New- York  was  a  city  of  idleness,  gayety, 
and  wealth.     But  let  him  turn  down  almost  any  street  at 
the  right  or  left,  and  enter  some  of  the  dwellings  of  the  in- 
dustrious poor,  and  he  would  find  all  were  not  rich  or  un- 
occupied ;  let  him  glance  at  the  ciiainbers  of  others,  and  he 
would  be  convinced  that  some  are  wretched  and  in  want  of 
all  things.     Yet  he  need  not  blame  too  severely  the  gay  and 
young  for  being  so  regardless  of  the  sufferers  near  them ;  they 
know  not  of  their  existence,  or  realize  not  their  own  ability 
to  aid  them.     All  parents  do  not  estimate  the  value  of  en- 
grafting practical  and  systematic  benevolence   upon  their 
plan  of  education,  and  rather  teacii  their  children  by  example 
to  despise  the  poor,  than  to  regard  them  as  beings  offering 
occasions  of  moral  self-improvement  to  the  rich. 

But  it  would  be  too  long  to  tell  all  the  aspects  and  fluctu- 
ations of  the  currents  for  a  single  day  in  the  capital,  or  even 
to  trace  the  course  of  a  single  drop,  like  myself,  circulating 
one  tour  round  the  system.  It  is  enough  that  the  clocks  and 
watches  go  on  with  their  seconds  and  hours  as  if  they 
marked  no  appointments  for  friendly  or  formal  visits ;  no 


69 


THE  EAST  RIVEH. 


periods  of  payment,  for  persons  wlio  woulil  prefer  to  keep 
their  sixpences  or  their  tlioiisanils  ;  no  ilrpartnres  or  arrivals 
of  cargoes,  no  clianges  in  stocks — in  sliort,  as  if  prosperity 
or  adversity,  weahli  or  poverty,  joy  or  disappointment  were 
not  decided  by  every  revolution  of  the  hands  for  thousands 
of  anxious  individuals. 

If  i;  ,».  solemn  rtlleclion,  after  the  bustle  has  passed,  and 
the  iraveller  again  contemplates  empty  streets  and  noiseless 
pavements,  deserted  stores  and  silent  wharves,  while  weary 
bones  are  resting,  the  anxious  busy  at  their  dreams,  and  the 
sick  and  dying,  or  their  attendants,  alone  conscious  of  the 
hour,  that  two  hundred  and  forty  thousand  persons  have 
spent  another  day.  The  lime  has  rapidly  passed,  but  in  it 
how  many  millions  of  properly  have  changed  hands ;  what 
applications  of  capital  have  been  determined  upon,  which 
will  increase  the  comforts  of  whole  districts  of  country; 
what  plans  have  been  devised  by  consummate  commercial 
skill ;  how  many  a  generous  deed  has  been  done  with 
wealth  honourably  obtained ;  how  many  a  piece  of  gold 
added  to  tho  miser's  hoard !  In  that  short  space  of  time 
how  many  a  tear  has  been  shed  by  parting  friends ;  how 
many  a  smile  made  by  those  who  have  returned  ;  how  many 
a  foreigner  has  first  touched  tiie  soil  of  America ;  how  many 
a  traveller,  like  me,  hus  closed  his  visit  to  this  busy  city ! 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Fashions  and  old  Fasliions  in  'rravelling — New- York  Harbour — Re- 
treat of  Wiisliington's  Army  from  Long  Inland — The  East  River — 
Low  State  of  Atiricuhurc  caused  by  our  defective  Education — Hell 
Gate — Long  Island  Sound. 

The  rapidity  of  our  steamboats  and  railroad  cars  deprive 
us  of  a  great  many  interesting  sights  and  agreeable  reflec- 
tions, and  prevent  us  from  becoming  particularly  acquainted 
with  any  part  of  our  country.     The  improved  vehicles  un- 


)  wouiil  prefer  to  keep 
lo  (Icparlurcs  or  arrivals 
1  sliort,  as  iC  prosperity 
or  disappointment  were 
he  hands  for  tiiousands 

I  bustle  has  passed,  and 
pty  streets  and  noiseless 
It  wharves,  while  weary 
lit  iheir  dreams,  and  the 
alone  conscious  of  the 
thousand  persons  have 
rapidly  passed,  but  in  it 
e  changed  hands  ;  what 
determined  upon,  which 
le  districts  of  country; 
consummate  commercial 
d  has  been  done  with 
many  a  piece  of  gold 
ihat  short  space  of  time 
by  parting  friends  ;  how 
ivo  relumed  ;  how  many 
of  America ;  how  many 
visit  to  this  busy  city '. 


[X. 

r — New- York  Harbour — Re- 
sr  iBlarid — The  East  River — 
ir  defective  Education — Hell 


and  railroad  cars  deprive 
Its  and  ngreeable  reflec- 
ig  particularly  acquainted 
le  improved  vehicles  un- 


HAniTS. 


63 


doubtedly  have  their  advantages ;  but  while  I  acknowledge 
this  evident  fact,  1  am  not  forgetful  of  those  belonging  to 
the  old  and  slower  modes.    I  am  fond  imked,  now  and  then, 
when  time  permits,  and   an  interesting  region  invites,  of 
leaving  every  thing  which  modern  fashion  approves  in  the 
traveller,  and  betaking  myself  to  a  country  stage-coach  or 
a  farmt.'r's  wagon,  and  feel  delight  in  the  rattling  wheels  and 
the  hcaltiiful  jolting  motion  of  a  stony  hill ;  and  sometimes 
like  to  mount  the  saddle,  and  take  the  road  at  break  of  day, 
or  set  off  on  foot  in  company  with  some  chance  fellow- 
traveller,  to  earn  an  appetite  by  a  long  walk  before  break- 
fast.    I  am  so  unfortunate  as  to  have  spnmg  from  a  race  of 
early  risers,  unacquainted  with  the  luxuries  of  morning  naps, 
and  suiler  from  an  infirmity  that  makes  me  love  morning 
air  and  athletic  exercise.     I  can  congratulate  a  city  friend 
on  the  certain  prospect  he  has  that  hia  children  will  never 
know  so  lamentable  a  state  of  existence  ns  that  in  which  I 
find  myself,  when  I  hanker  after  pure  breezes  and  dewy 
fields  in  one  of  my  paroxysms,  and  when  so  far  from  finding 
sympathy  for  my  afflictions,  can  scarcely  make  anybody  un- 
derstand what  I  mean  when  I  talk  about  it.     My  city  friends, 
I  may  well  say,  have  no  reason  to  apprehend  that  they  or 
any  of  their  descendants  will  ever  be  exposed  to  such  a 
malady:  it  is  not  in  their  blood,  and  tlie  name  of  it  is  un- 
known in  their  vocabulary,  else  so  rich  in  asthenic  terms. 
Even  those  whose  scientific  repast  it  is  to  converse  of  all  dis- 
eases, from  the  corn  produced  by  fasiiionable  shoes  to  the 
distorted  spine,  and  the  head  deformed  in  infancy  by  lying 
on  one  side,  while  the  nurse  was  asleep,  and  the  mother  at 
the  theatre,  even  they  know  not  the  complaint  to  which  I 
am  liable. 

I  have  said  a  great  deal  about  myself,  and  the  nonde- 
script disorder  with  which  1  am  aflected ;  and  yet  I  have 
not  told  the  extent  to  which  it  sometimes  proceeds:  for 
there  might  be  danger  that  instead  of  being  gratified  with  my 
loved  country  retreats  in  the  spring,  I  should  be  packed  ofi" 
at  once,  as  a  confirmed  Bedlamite,  to  a  hospital.  To 
strangers,  however,  I  may  confess,  that  one  reason  why  I 
sometimes  shun  fashionable  vehicles  in  my  journeys  is,  that 


64 


THE  EAST  RIVER. 


7 


I  wish  to  avoid  fashionable  soeiuty,  and  revive  the  memory 
of  past  days,  and  of  men  who  have  lonj^  finite  ceased  to 
tread  the  world.  4  confess  tiiat  liiis  fad  is  sullicient  to  for- 
feit for  nie  all  claim  to  fashionable  eHieem. 

What!  prefer  the  history  of  onr  fjrandfathers,  that  plain, 
unornamented,  unsophisticated  set,  who  were  too  straiglil-for- 
ward  to  allow  of  any  variety  in  their  existence,  and  so  unde- 
viating  in  habits  as  to  admit  of  nothing  romantic  :  that  race, 
so  profoundly  ignorant  of  modern  refmements,  so  stubbornly 
attached  to  simple  habits  and  plain  speech,  and  the  least 
worthy  of  the  exalted,  the /af/iJonai^fl  generation  which  has 
succeeded  it ! 

These  remarks  may  prepare  my  readers  for  my  singular 
voyage  down  Long  Island  Sound.  This  I  undertook  in  a 
sloop,  which  having  unloaded  a  cargo  of  wood,  was  on  her 
return  to  the  mouth  of  Connecticut  Kiver.  The  last  time  I 
had  come  up  the  Sound  I  .lad  travelled  in  a  steamboat,  and 
at  such  a  rate  as  to  rc-.et  our  swift  speed,  while  others 
around  were  condemning  the  machinery,  tlie  boiler,  the  hull, 
the  mechanics  who  had  done  their  best  to  produce  a  racer, 
and  the  master  and  men  who  navigated  her.  Feeling  in  the 
humour  for  an  old-fashioned  passage  through  the  East 
River,  I  was  pleased  to  find  a  vessel  so  much  to  my  mind, 
and  flattered  myself  that,  with  the  wind  then  blowing,  I 
should  be  able  to  scan  the  shores  at  my  leisure.  I  looked 
at  the  round  bows  of  the  sloop,  and  then  at  the  old  sails  and 
the  light-handed  crew.  By  beating  with  a  long  leg  and  a 
short  one,  she  might  tack  and  tack  without  making  too  much 
head-way,  and  perhaps  reach  Throg's  Neck  in  time  to  wait 
for  the  morning  tide ;  that  is,  after  a  passage  of  about  six 
hours.  The  steamboat  which  I  might  have  chosen  moved 
off  and  out  of  sight,  while  our  hopeful  crew  were  waiting  to 
see  a  Frenchman's  monkeys  stop  dancing  on  tiie  dock,  after 
which, — and  fifteen  minutes  spent  in  rolling  up  sleeves  and 
shoving  the  sloop   out, — we  committed  ourselves  to  the 

deep. 

It  would  take  me  long  to  describe  the  appearance  of 
Brooklyn  Heights  at  sunset,  as  seen  from  certain  pomts  on 
the  water  below,  or  to  convey  to  a  stranger  an  idea  of  its 


still 

aloi 

shai 

noo 

mor 

Nev 

cxpi 

arc 

it  in 

So 

cide 

trop 

drur 

the 

lias 

Islar 

of  m 

to  th 

mere 

pccti 

she 

clain 

novel 

Yorl 

scien 

worl< 

Tl 

circu 

eveni 

sinoo 

sions 

west( 

ing  ill 

its  lal 

to  tin 

lonce 

like  t 

travel 

We  1( 


1 


ER. 

,  and  revive  the  memory 
ve  luii{^  ^'iiKtc  ceased  to 
IS  fael  is  suiruMeiit  to  for- 
esteeni. 

^raiidfatliers,  that  phiiii, 
who  were  too  stiaiglil-l'or- 
r  existence,  and  so  unde- 
liiig  romantic  :  tliat  race, 
efmcments,  »o  stubbornly 
tin  speech,  and  the  least 
iblo  generation  which  has 

readers  for  my  singular 
This  1  undertook  in  a 
rgo  of  wood,  was  on  her 
.  River.  The  last  time  I 
elled  in  a  steamboat,  and 
wift  speed,  while  others 
inery,  tlie  boiler,  the  hull, 
best  to  produce  a  racer, 
ited  her.  Feeling  in  the 
isage  through  the  East 
\el  so  much  to  my  mind, 
e  wind  then  blowing,  I 
at  my  leisure.  I  looked 
then  at  the  old  sails  and 
ig  with  a  long  leg  and  a 
witiiout  making  too  much 
»g's  Neck  in  time  to  wait 
a  passage  of  about  six 
light  have  chosen  moved 
jful  crew  were  waiting  to 
lancing  on  tiie  dock,  after 
in  rolling  up  sleeves  and 
imitted  ourselves  to  the 

cribe  the  appearance  of 
en  from  certain  points  on 
,  stranger  an  idea  of  its 


IIF.LL  UATE. 


G3 


Bill]  more  delightful  aspect  to  one  who  at  sunrise  walks 
alonfe   its  tlu-n  shady  patlis.     'i'hough,  like   the   beautiful 
shades  of  lluboken,  they  are  often  crowded  in  the  after- 
noon ;  like  them  they  are  unseen  and  iiiiilioiigiii  of  in  >he 
morning,  wlicn  only  they  aie  truly  delij-litful.     The  Hay  of 
New-York  is  often  eonii)aicd  with  that  of  Naples  ;  and  from 
cxpressittiis  I  have  seen  in   ioine  of  the  newspapers  (which 
are  admitted  to  be  the  most  aiitheniic  records  in  the  world). 
It  iimst  greatly  transcend  it  in  some  important  particulars. 
So  far  as  I  have  been  ai)le  to  compare  the  two,  I  am  de- 
cidedly of  the  opinion  that  the  bay  of  our  commercial  me- 
tropolis is  incomparably  before  that  of  Naples  in  eels  and 
drum-fish,  and  that  this  point  of  superiority  vastly  outweighs 
the  mere  circumstance  that  the  latter  is  thirty  miles  wide, 
has  Capri  and   Ischia,  instead   of  Governor's  and  Gibbet 
Islands,  Vesuvius  in  the  place  of  Paulus  Hook,  and  a  range 
of  mountains  for  the  Jersey  shore.     I  therefore  bade  adieu 
to  the  city  with  less  regret  when  I  recollected  that  her  com- 
mercial enterprise  and  prosperity  are  so  great,  and  licr  pros- 
pects so  brilliant,  as  to  hiduce  the  simple  to  presume  that 
she  is  equally  peerless  in  every  thing  else,  and  to  have 
claimed  for  her  a  character  which  fate  has  decreed  she  can 
never  possess.     The  truth  is,  like  a  village  beauty,  New- 
\ork  is  believed   by  her  admirers  to   be  the  paragon  of 
science,  taste,  and  all  things  ;  because  she  excels  the  known 
world  in  what  they  think  of  greater  value. 

The  passage  of  Hell  Gate  is  very  interesting  under  certain 
circumstances.  When  the  sun  is  low,  either  at  morning  or 
evening,  the  sloping  light  has  a  pretty  ellect  among  the 
smooth  green  lawns,  the  weeping  willows,  the  tasteful  manr 
sions,  and  the  little  white  boat  and  bathing-houses  on  the 
western  shore  of  the  bay.  As  the  sloop,  under  the  cheer- 
ing influence  of  a  brisk  breeze,  stretches  from  side  to  side,  in 
its  labours  to  stem  the  current,  these  objects  are  presented 
to  the  eye  under  a  great  variety  of  aspects  ;  and  the  turbu- 
lence  of  tlie  water  rushing  over  the  rocks  at  the  Gate,  so 
like  tlie  agitated  crowd  of  the  city  streets,  redoubles  in  tlis 
traveller's  mind  the  beauties  of  the  tranquil  scenes  on  shore. 
We  look,  therefore,  on  the  retired  retreat  of  the  murciiant 


66 


Tlli:  EAST  RIVER. 


7 


with  some  participiition  of  iUp  pleasure  cnjoycul  by  Uie 
family  Kroiips,  now  iuul  tlicii  si'cii  niiiil)iiii)r  ul  liisurc  along 
the  rocks,  or  seatcil  upon  lln-  grass  ni'iir  ihe  inarijin  ol"  the 
triuuiuil  hay,  which  often  relleets  the  features  of  tiiat  attrac- 
tive scene. 

If  night  hcftins  to  close  around  us,  or  if  a  threatening 
thunder-siiowcr  assails  us  in  this  remarkable  |)ass,  we  may 
have  some  faint  idea  of  those  scenes  of  dread  and  danger 
which  have  here  been  so  often  experienced  by  vessels 
under  the  equinox,  or  in  a  violent  hurricane.  What  a  re- 
verse to  tiie  trancpiil  enjoyments  of  the  summer  residence 
must  be  presented  l)y  the  signal  of  distress  heard  at  night 
between  claps  of  thunder,  or  to  the  gay  party  on  the  rocks 
by  the  coroner's  jury  silting  in  the  arbour,  over  the  body  of 
some  shipwrecked  stranger. 

Kip's  Kay  rentinded  me  so  strongly  of  the  retreat  of 
General  Washington  from  Long  Island,  that  my  imagination 
depicted  several  of  the  painful  scenes  which  followed  it,  as 
we  sailed  along  near  the  spot  where  they  had  occurred. 
The  guardian  care  of  Providence  over  our  feeble  army  was 
plainly  shown  at  several  important  epochs  of  our  Uevolu- 
tionary  War,  but  in  no  case,  1  believe,  more  conspicuously 
than  when  the  British  were  ready  to  destroy  or  to  capture  it 
on  Long  Island.  The  hasty  redoubts  and  embankments, 
now  fast  disappearing  there  under  the  plough  and  the  street 
inspector's  rod,  attest  the  zeal  with  which  the  patriotic 
militia  of  the  neighbouring  states  laboured  for  the  defence 
of  the  capital ;  but  nothing  can  give  a  lively  picture  of  the 
trying  circumstances  of  the  time  but  the  few  aged  survivors 
of  that  period. 

"  1  was  a  mere  boy,"  said  a  venerable  friend,  "  but  hearing 
that  the  city  was  in  danger,  sat  up  late  at  night  to  cast 
bidlets,  and  in  the  morning  hurried  off  without  leave,  to  join 
the  army.  I  spent  part  of  the  first  night  of  my  active  ser- 
vice standing  sentinel  on  one  of  the  advanced  stations  near 
Flatbush,  during  a  tremendous  thunder-storm,  the  lightning 
of  which  shone  on  the  enemy's  tents  and  arms,  then  in  full 
view.  Of  course  I  had  time  to  make  my  own  reflections  on 
war,  and  the  desperate  condition  of  the  country."     With- 


out I 

of  01 

draw 
to  b( 
Whil 
ever, 
the  II 
instai 
post 
At 
were 

IjCC. 

count 

sarve 

in  th( 

says 

are,  s 

upon 

says  I 

lookei 

with  1 

on  'en 

Gen. 

lie,  m 

be  sai 

'em. 

he  hac 

'I'herc 

to  hav 

riddled 

would 

him  fin 

Crol 

in  gre; 

the  cor 

fellow-i 

The 

agriculi 

rear  of 


■:r. 


Inisurc  enjoyed  by  the 
riiintiiiii(f  III  liisurc  along 
I  near  ihe  inarijiii  ol"  the 
ic  featurps  oC  tluit  allrac- 

118,  or  if  11  tlirealening 
cmarkablc  pass,  wc  may 
lies  of  (Irt-ail  aiul  danger 

c.xpt;rirnc(;d  by  vessels 

iiiirricanc.  AVhat  a  rc- 
of  the  summer  residence 
r  distress  heard  at  night 
!  gay  parly  on  the  roeks 

arbour,  over  the  body  ol' 

rongly  of  the  retreat  of 
dand,  that  my  imagination 
nes  which  followed  it,  as 
rhere  they  had  occurred, 
over  our  feeble  army  was 
nt  epochs  of  our  Uevolu- 
lievc,  more  conspicuously 
to  destroy  or  to  capture  it 
loubts  and  embankments, 
the  plough  and  the  street 
with  which  the  patriotic 
I  laboured  for  the  defence 
ve  a  lively  picture  of  the 
)Ut  the  few  aged  survivors 


srable  friend,  "  but  hearing 
up  late  at  night  to  cast 
1  otl'  without  leave,  to  join 
rst  night  of  my  active  ser- 
Lhe  advanced  stations  near 
under-storm,  tlic  lightning 
;nts  and  arms,  then  in  full 
uke  my  own  reflections  on 
,  of  the  country." 


With 


AOKII  ULTIRK. 


07 


out  Che  a,d  o(  a  thick  niisi,  which  covered  the  movements 
of  our  army,  our  retreat  woul.l  have  been  discover.Ml  and 
drawn  on  a  g.neral  attack.  The  outposts  had  b,.en  or.iered 
to  be  kept  occ„p„.,l  till  lU,  lasl.  and  then  to  b,-  given  up. 
While  .some  „l  ihe  tr.n.ps  w,,e  yet  waiting  to  « .nb.uk,  hoi. 
•;v.>r,  Ihecomrnan.lerof  one  ofihem,  who  had  misunderstood 
tl"'  ..rder,  marched  down  to  the  shore.  He  was  ordrred 
"istan.ly  back;  and,  s.rang..  as  it  may  seem,  reoccupied  his 
post  without  the  observation  of  tiie  enemy. 

At  the  battle  of  White  Plains  some  of' our  old  soldier. 
were  exasperatc.I  bryond  nu.asure  by  the  con.lurt  of  (ieneral 
l^oo.     »  I  was  at  tl...  buttle  of  Whit,-  Plains,"  «aid  an  old 
countryman,  "  and  lor  want  of  a  better,  belonged  to  the  re 
sarve  ol  colours.     I  suppose  you  know  what  that  is.     Well 
m  tlH|  battle,  I  heard  a  kind  of  a  rumpus  behind  me;  and 
says  I,  they  re  a  going  to  cut  off  our  retreat.    I'm  afraid  thev 
are.  says  our  sargcanf.     And  says  he  to  me,  will  you  fall 
upon  them  m  our  rearT     Says  I,  yes;  and' in  fro'nt  too 
says  I.  lor  I  was  young  m  them  days.     Well, just  then  I 
looked,  and  see  his  excellency,  (;eneral  Washington,  coming 
M'.th  his  1,  e-guard.    They  were  on  a  brisk  trot ;  and  some 
on  en,  had  to  eanter  to  keep   up.     He  rode  right  up  to 
(-en.  Lee,  and  says  he,  general,  why  don't  you  fight  1    Says 
he,  my  men  won't  stand  it.     Says  his  excellency  (I  won't 
be  sartm  he  said  you  lie;    but   he  said),  you  han't  tried 
em      And  there  we  were  all  in  a  hurry  to  march  on;  but 
i  e  had  been  bribed  with  Uritish  gold  :  there's  no  doubt  on't. 
Ihere  waan  t  a  man  there  but  what  would  have  been  dad 
to  have  h.s  excellency  say  the  word-and  they  would  have 
ridd  ed  him  iiner  than  any  sieve  you  ever  see.     Ever>-  one 
would  have  had  a  push  at  liim:  they  would  have  riddled 
hiin  hner  than  snuff." 

Croton  River,  near  which  this  battle  was  fought,  will  be 
m  great  danger  of  being  carried  to  New- York,  whenever 
the  corporation  shall  care  one  half  as  much  about  what  their 
fellow-caizens  drink,  as  they  do  about  getting  their  votes. 

The  shores  ol  the  East  River  show  little  improvement  in 
agriculture;  an  art  in  which  our  countrymen  are  far  in  the 
rear  of  some  other  nations.     There  is  every  reason  to  be- 


' 


es 


THE  EAST  KUEK. 


lieve,  that  judicious  treatment  would  soon  double  the  product 
of  tliese  fields.    But  what  is  to  be  expected  in  a  land  where 
learning  lias  long  been  ranged  in  array  against  that  most 
important  science,  where  the  colleges  are  ashamed  to  admit 
even  its  name  on  their  lists  of  studies,  where  its  instruments 
are  despised  by  the  student,  and  the  aspirant  at  book-know- 
ledge casts  from  him  every  mark  of  that  most  honourable 
profession,  as  something  incompatible  with  his  lofty  aims? 
How  can  it  be  expected  that  our  fields  should  be  subjected 
to  such  systems  as  the  wisest  and  most  eidightened  men 
might  devise,  while  the  most  frivolous  topic  has  the  prefer- 
ence over  agriculture  in  the  company  of  tliose  whose  ex- 
ample is  powerful  in  society:  while  our  children  are  kept 
from  a  knowledge  of  the  plainest  of  its  principles,  though 
drilled  for  months  and  years  on  the  firt.-ek  parlic-les,  or  see 
thousands  squandered   to  make  them  French  parrots  and 
peacocks. 

Here   pardon  me  for  a  digression.     In  the  Granditone 
Academy  the  pupils  were  trained  to  look  upon  the  farmers' 
sons  of  that  town  and  county  as  beings  of  an  inferior  na- 
ture, thouirh  the  ymWic  prejudice  against  it,  which  was  thus 
greatly  fostered,  was  constantly  counteracting  the  labours  of 
the  principal  and  teachers ;  and  I  believe  that  its  "  liberal 
friends"  generally  would  have  been  more  unwilling  to  have 
a  boy  skilled  in  the  care  of  an  orcliard,  or  the  rearing  of 
fowls,  tiian  caught  stealing  eggs  or  apples.     The  manual  la- 
bour schools  deserve  the  thanks  of  the  country  for  breaking 
through   such  miserable   prejudices.      But  they  need  the 
active  and  immediate  co-operation   of  good  parents,  who 
should  make  agricultural,  or  at  least  horticultural  labour  a 
regular  daily  employment,  for  the  moral  and  intellectual, 
as  well  as  the  physical  benefit  of  their  children.      What 
youth  would  not  derive  real  gratilication  fiom  seeing  the 
shrub  or  the  tree  springing  from  the  earth  he  had  softened 
with  that  vigorous  arm  which  is  now  more  honourably  em- 
ployed in  swinging  a  fashionable  walking-stick?     Whose 
health  might  not  be  improved  or  guarded  by  the  most  invigo- 
rating of  all  exercise  in  the  open  air  ?     Whose  intelligence 
would  not  be  cultivated  by  the  application  of  arithmetic  to 


thj 

obi 

pul 

nol 

to 

the 

thti 

spi 

Pn 

i 

this 

of! 

wh 

enc 

in 

as  i 

him 

to  I 

and 

wer 

con 

whi 

One 

yea 

whc 

ovei 

was 

and 

the 

the 

brou 

then 

siibj 

actii 

mel( 

whe 

In  a 

long 

polit 


VEK. 

1(1  soon  double  the  product 
;  expected  in  a  land  where 
in  array  against  that  most 
eges  are  ashamed  to  admit 
idies,  where  its  instruments 
the  aspirant  at  book-know- 
k  of  that  most  honourable 
atible  with  his  lofty  aims  1 

fields  should  be  subjected 
and  most  eidightened  men 
olous  topic  has  the  prefer- 
npany  of  those  whose  ex- 
hile  our  children  are  kept 
!st  of  its  principles,  though 
the  Gireek  panicles,  or  see 

them  French  parrots  and 

ission.  In  the  Granditone 
d  to  look  upon  the  farmers' 
IS  beings  of  an  inferior  na- 
.  y"'«inst.  it.  which  was  thus 
counteracting  the  labours  ot 
1 1  believe  that  its  "  liberal 
een  more  unwilling  to  have 
1  orchard,  or  the  rearing  of 
or  apples.  The  manual  la- 
of  the  country  for  breaking 
lices.  But  they  need  the 
lion  of  good  parents,  who 
least  horticultural  labour  a 
the  moral  and  intellectual, 
t  of  their  children.  What 
ratilication  fiom  seeing  the 
I  the  earth  he  had  softened 
i  now  more  honourably  em- 
ble  walking-stick?  Whose 
-  guarded  by  the  most  invigo- 
>n  air  1  Whose  intelligence 
application  of  arithmetic  to 


PETER  PUACTICAL's  FARM. 


69 


the  calculations  of  labour,  wages,  and  prices,  the  practical 
observation  of  plants,  animals,  and  minerals  in  the  great 
public  cabinet  and  museum  of  nature  ?  Whose  habits  might 
not  be  hedged  in  from  evil,  if  the  recreations  of  the  day  led 
to  more  lofty  associations  and  meditations,  tempted  him  into 
the  fields  at  daybreak,  gave  him  a  keener  relish  for  plain  food 
than  the  fashionable  cook  eyn  excite  with  all  his  sauce  and 
spices,  and  make  him  long  for  repose  at  the  hour  which 
Providence  has  assigned  to  it  ? 

It  would  be  well  for  other  places  besides  the  shores  of 
this  strait,  called  the  East  River,  if  they  were  tlie  residence 
of  such  men  as  my  old  friend  Peter  Practical,  of  Study  work, 
who,  without  the  advantages  of  a  fashionable  friend  to  influ- 
ence  him,  did,  as  a  man  of  common  sense  will  sometimes  do 
in  his  circumstances,  train  up  his  sons  to  "ride  horse," 
as  it  was  called,— not  with  a  lackey,  but,  with  a  plough  be- 
hind them  ;  to  rise,  not  with  the  headache  at  eight  or  nine, 
to  hot  rolls  and  coffee,  but  with  daybreak,  to  go  to  pasture, 
and  milk  the  milk  they  were  to  drink  for  breakfast.     They 
were  seen  accompanying  their  father  in  the  spring,  planting 
corn  in  company,  and  listening  to  his  remarks  and  questions, 
which  were  full  of  originality,  cheerfulness,  and  good  sense. 
One  had  the  cattle  under  his  particular  care  the  whole 
year  round;  another  was  supervisor  of  the  sheep;  a  third, 
who  had  shown  a  mechanical  turn,  was  put  in  authority 
over  the  tools  and  implements ;  and  little  Tom,  the  fourth, 
was  often  heard  asking  questions  of  them  all,  assisting  them 
and  his  father  by  turns,  studying  the  habits  of  the  fowls, 
the  sheep,  and  the  oxen,  and  looking  further  every  day  into 
the  various  interesting  things  around  him.     Every  season 
brought  new  employments,  pleasures,  and  instructions  to 
them  all ;  and  the  father  often  asked  their  opinions  on  such 
subjects  as  they  coidd  understand,  and  encouraged  them  by 
acting  on  their  suggestions,  about  the  planting  of  water- 
melons out  of  sight  from  the  road,  strengthening  the  fence 
where  the  cattle  threatened  to  get  in,  or  putting  scarecrows 
in  a  better  position.     He  kept  them  at  the  district-school  as 
long  as  it  was  open,  and  made  ihem  the  cleanest  and  most 
polite  children  there ;  and  when  the  school  ceased,  he  de- 

7 


" 


I 


70 


THE  EAST  RIVBR. 


voted  an  hour  at  least  in  the  day  to  the  instruction  of  his 
boys,  and  those  of  his  neighbourhood  in  his  own  house. 
Scarcely  was  this  practice  entirely  infringed  upon  eveii  in 
the  midst  of  planting  or  of  harvest.     1  never  was  in  a  house 
in  which  learning  appeared  to  be  more  highly  respected. 
He  had  a  small  library,  containing  solid  works  of  his  father's 
day  and  his  own ;  and  few  people  ever  treated  good  books 
with  more  regard.     Of  useless  or  injurious  ones,  however, 
his  children  were  taught  to  speak  in  terms  of  contempt  or 
abhorrence ;  and  as  the  rule  of  the  house  on  this,  as  on 
many  other  subjects,  was  to  weigh  every  thing  in  the  balance 
of  practical  usefulness,  it  was  easily  and  generally  justly 
applied.     When  the  Granditone  Academy  announced  that 
chemistry  and  natural  philosophy  were  lo  be  taught  there, 
he  sent  Richard  to  see  whelher  he  could  get  any  thing  out 
of  the  instructions  in  those  branches  which  might  be  turned 
to  account.     It  was  soon  apparent,  however,  that  scarcely 
any  thing  of  these  branches  was  taughl,  so  much  time  was 
occupied  in  the  classes  of  French  (though  without  any  hazard 
of  learning  to  speak  it);  of  music,  without  learning  to  sing; 
of  rhetoric,  without  getting  any  thing  to  say  ;  and  of  compo- 
sition, without  obtaining  an  idea  worth  writing.     Richard, 
therefore,  came  home,  at  the  end  of  one  quarter,  with  little 
more  to  communicate  than    a  list  of  definiticms  of  learned 
terms,  which  his  father  told  him  were  worth  about  as  much 
aa  the  names  of  a  set  of  farming  instruments  to  a  person 
ignorant  of  their  forms  and  uses.     Having  however  been 
obliged  to  purchase  some  elementary  works  on  these  in- 
valuable sciences,  he  brought  them  home,  and  from  these 
much  important  information  was  derived,  and  the  names  of 
books  still  more  valuable  to  the  farmer,  who  was  soon  able 
to  make  solid  additions  to  his  library,  and  to  put  in  practice 
the  principles  they  inculcated. 

If  the  proprietor  of  any  of  these  tracts  of  lanil  ..long  the 
East  River  c(»uld  see  the  farm  of  Peter  Practical,  or  even 
the  account  of  its  annual  products  in  cattle,  vegetables, 
fruit,  &c.,  with  the  simple  but  judicious  and  truly  scientific 
means  by  which  extraordinary  results  are  there  produced, 
he  would  wish  that  some  of  his  family  might  take  up  his 


resic 

migh 

that 

obne: 

metr( 

the  p 

part 

can  t 

Inth 

one  c 

purcl 

once 

bers  I 

remai 

from 

Th 
coasti 
ance, 
refugi 
theS 
interv 
lets  tl 
of  wn 
the  ni 
ally  p 
are  s 
house 
impor 
vent  < 
snow  J 

I  w 
friend 
a  stro 
wards 
and  y< 
would 

Not 
farmei 
with  V 


to  the  instruction  of  his 
Dod  in  his  own  house, 
infringed  upon  eve;i  in 

I  never  was  in  a  house 

more  highly  respected, 
olid  works  of  his  father's 
ever  treated  good  books 
injurious  ones,  however, 
in  terms  of  contempt  or 
he  house  on  this,  as  on 
ivery  thing  in  the  balance 
lily  and  generally  justly 
nadcmy  announced  that 
ivere  lo  be  taught  there, 
could  get  any  thing  out 
es  which  might  be  turned 
t,  however,  that  scarcely 
lughl,  so  much  time  was 
hough  without  any  hazard 
without  learning  to  sing ; 
ig  to  say  ;  and  of  compo- 
worth  writing.  Richard, 
»f  one  quarter,  with  little 
of  definiticms  of  learned 
ere  worth  about  as  much 
;  instruments  to  a  person 

Having  however  been 
tary  works  on  these  in- 
im  home,  and  from  these 
lerived,  and  the  names  of 
rmer,  who  was  soon  able 
iry,  and  to  put  in  practice 

e  tracts  of  lantl  ..long  the 
'  Peter  Practical,  or  even 
CIS  in  cattle,  vegetables, 
icious  and  truly  scientific 
iulis  are  there  produced, 
amily  might  take  up  his 


LONG  ISLAND  BOVNO. 


71 


residence  in  the  neighbourhood.  To  this,  however,  there 
might  be  an  objection  :  for  it  is  stated,  on  good  authority, 
that  in  one  place  on  Long  Island,  where  an  intelligent 
observer  would  exclaim,  "  Why  is  this  not  the  garden  of  the 
metroplis?"  there  has  been  a  secret  association  among 
the  people,  to  effect  the  exclusion  of  every  person  from  that 
part  of  the  country  in  which  Mr.  Practical  lives.  But  how 
can  this  be  effected  ?  inquires  one  of  my  republican  readers. 
In  this  way:  if  a  piece  of  ground  is  to  be  sold  at  auction, 
one  or  more  of  the  society  attends,  and  if  it  is  likely  to  be 
purchased  by  any  one  suspected  of  such  an  origin,  he  at 
once  outbids  him,  and  the  loss  is  divided  among  the  mem- 
hers  of  the  association,  who  appear  to  believe  that  w'  at 
remains  to  them  of  their  worldly  estates  has  thus  been  saved 
from  destruction. 

The  northern  shore  of  Long  Island,  unfortunately  for  the 
coasting  trade,  with  few  exceptions,  is  of  a  uniform  appear- 
ance, and  has  few  harbours  where  even  a  sloop  may  find 
refuge  from  a  northerly  storm.  A  steep  sand-bank  boundf 
the  Sound  on  the  south,  almost  in  its  whole  extent,  and  long 
intervals  are  generally  founu  between  the  few  bays  and  in- 
lets that  break  its  uniformity.  It  is  surprising  that  the  cases 
of  wreck  and  loss  of  life  have  not  been  more  frequent ;  for 
the  number,  variety,  and  value  of  the  cargoes  wiiich  annu- 
ally pass  through  this  great  channel  of  domestic  commerce 
are  surprisingly  great,  and  fast  increasing.  The  light- 
houses,  which,  now  shine  like  diamond  pins  on  almost  every 
important  headland,  do  what  human  precaution  can  to  pre- 
vent disasters :  but  what  aid  can  they  afford  in  misty  or 
snowy  weather  ? 

I  was  reminded  of  the  anxious  night  once  spent  by  a 
friend  in  a  steamboat  at  the  mouth  of  yonder  harbour,  with 
a  strong  gale  blowing  in,  and  the  vessel,  with  her  head  to- 
wards It,  revolving  her  ponderous  wheels  with  all  her  might, 
and  yet  barely  able  to  hold  the  station  which  no  anchor 
would  have  enabled  her  to  maintain. 

Not  far  under  our  lee  was  the  spot  where  an  enterprising 
farmer's  son,  from  a  retired  country  town,  in  a  sloop,  loaded 
With  wood  for  New-York,  was  driven  on  shore  at  a  high 


72 


LONG  ISLAND  SOUND. 


springtide  in  the  night,  and  remained  ignorant  of  his  situa- 
tion till  morning  broiie,  and  showed  them  they  were  safe. 
The  waves  which  had  brolien  over  them  had  thrown  the 
vessel  up  to  the  verge  of  a  cuUivated  field,  so  that  with  little 
difficulty  they  leaped  upon  the  stone  wall  which  surrounded 
it;  and  afier  recovering  from  almost  freezing  by  sheltering 
themselves  awhile  behind  it,  they  found  comfortable  refresh- 
ments in  a  neighbouring  farm-house. 

Willi  scarcely  less  suffering,  though  with  better  fortune, 
anotiier  friend  of  mine,  of  three  times  his  age,  and  ten  times 
his  skill,  had  conducted  his  little  vessel  through  these  waters 
in  a  December  night,  when  a  heavy  fall  of  rain  and  snow, 
accompanied  with  freezing  weather,  had  rendered  it  impos- 
sible to  loosen  a  rope  or  lower  a  sail,  and  a  tremendous 
gale  hoarsely  commanded  the  furling  of  the  canvass  on 
penalty  of  vengeance.  Every  brace  and  halliard  had  be- 
come a  spar  of  ice,  and  the  sails  could  not  be  cut  out  of  the 
yards  and  buntlines,  because  the  crew  had  refused  to  do 
duty,  and  gone  b-low.  The  old  commander,  undaunted  by 
all  these  difficulties,  might  have  been  seen  (had  there  been 
anybody  to  observe  him),  firmly  holding  the  helm,  some- 
times looking  in  vain  through  the  darkness  for  any  sign  of 
the  coast,  at  other  times  straining  his  eyes  to  distinguish 
what  light-house  it  might  be  he  saw  or  thought  he  saw  over 
the  icy  taffVail.  The  terrors  of  that  night, — though  the 
tale  I  had  listened  to  in  the  Mediterranean, — were  strongly 
impressed  upon  my  mind. 


«D. 


NEW-HAVEN. 


73 


i  ignorant  of  his  situa- 

1  them  they  were  safe. 

them  had  thrown  the 

field,  80  that  with  little 

wall  which  surrounded 

I  freezing  by  sheltering 
nd  comfortable  refresh- 

igh  with  better  fortune, 
;  his  age,  and  ten  timed 
el  through  these  waters 
full  of  rain  and  snow, 
had  rendered  it  impos- 
sail,  and  a  tremendous 
ng  of  the  canvass  on 
;  and  halliard  had  be* 
Id  not  be  cut  out  of  the 
rew  had  refused  to  do 
nmandcr,  undaunted  by 

II  seen  (had  there  been 
tiding  the  helm,  some- 
arkness  for  any  sign  of 
his  eyes  to  distinguish 
or  thought  he  saw  over 
lat  night, — though  the 
ranean, — were  strongly 


CHAPTER  X. 

New-Hayen— Literary  aspect— Refined  Society— Taste  in  Arcliitec 
ture-Bury.ng  Groun.i-Franklin  Institute-PaintiLs  of  T  S 
bull— American  Taste— Learning. 

New- Haven,  so  celebrated  for  the  attractive  beauty  of  its 
streets,  the  variety  and  romantic  nature  of  the  neighbouring 
scenery,  and  still  more  the  literary  and  refined  character  of 
Its  society— New-Haven  it  was  my  lot  to  visit  at  a  most 
mterestmg  period,  namely,  during  the  ceremonies  of  Com- 
mencement Week.  The  annual  celebration  of  Yale  College 
had  been  changed  this  year,  but  did  not  fail  to  collect  a 
large  concourse  of  persons  from  different  parts  of  the  coun- 
try, with,  as  frequently  happens,  some  foreigners  of  literary 
taste  and  intelligence.  ' 

There  is  scarcely  any  thing  better  calculated  to  give 
pleasure  to  a  friend  of  learning  than  to  visit  this  delightful 
city  on  such  an  occasion.     It  seems  as  if  New-Haven  had 
been  originally  planned  for  the  site  of  a  university;  and 
almost  as  if  every  public  as  well  as  every  private  house  had 
been  erected,  every  garden  laid  out,  every  court-yard  and 
public  square  beautified,  and  every  tree  planted  and  trained, 
with  direct  reference  to  its  appearance  and  convenience  as 
a  seat  of  learning.     The  central  squure,  which  is  a  noble 
quadrangle  of  eight  or  nine  hundred  feet,  surrounded  by 
double  rows  of  large  elms,  and  divided  by  a  street  that  is 
completely  arched  over  with  thick  foliage,  although  it  is  the 
site  of  four  of  the  finest  public  buildings,  and  shows  the 
fronts  of  handsome  mansions  on  three  of  its  sides,  affords 
the  university  its  place  of  honour,  for  the  six  college  build- 
ings  are  ranged  in  a  long  line  on  the  western  side,  where 
the  ground  is  highest,  and  the  elevation  superior  to  the 
chiel  part  of  the  city.     JNew-Haven  is  a  place  of  consider- 
able business,  with  the  inhabitants  of  surrounding  towns  j 
but  the  stores  are  so  remote  from  this  delightful  centre,  or 

7* 


74 


NEW-HAVEN. 


at  least  so  eflectually  concealed  from  view,  where  this  fine 
display  of  buildings  is  visible,  that  the  idea  ;is  well  as  the 
interruption  of  business  is  entirely  excluded.  It  is  impos- 
sible for  a  stranger  to  catch  a  glimpse  of  the  Green,  as  it 
is  familiarly  called,  especially  from  some  of  the  most  favour- 
able points  of  view  (as,  for  example,  the  public  or  the  pri- 
vate doors  of  the  Tontine  Coffee  House),  without  experi- 
encing sensations  of  a  peculiar  and  most  agreeable  nature. 
He  looks  from  under  the  shade  of  a  venerable  elm  grove 
upon  a  smooth  level  of  green  grass,  about  four  hundred  feet 
wide,  and  eight  hundred  in  length,  from  right  to  left.  The 
eye  then  first  meets  an  obstacle,  and  falls  upon  a  long  line 
of  drooping  trees  of  the  same  description,  standing  like  a 
wall  of  verdure  before  him,  diseloiiing  only  the  general  pro- 
portions of  three  line  churches,  in  different  tastes,  but  at 
uniform  distances,  with  towers  rising  to  a  great  height  into 
the  air,  and  giving  an  interrupted  view  of  the  university. 
As  for  tranquillity,  it  is  uubroken,  unless,  perhaps,  by  the 
traffickers  in  water-melons  offering  their  cooling  wares  to 
abate  the  thirst  of  a  literary  race ;  or  by  the  voices  of  the 
young  treading  the  paths  of  science,  which  stretch  across 
the  smooth  turf  up  the  hill  to  the  colleges,  "  as  plain  as  road 
to  parish  church,"  and  far  more  easy  than  the  steep  of 
science,  as  it  was  represented  to  them  at  first  starting,  ill  the 
frontispiece  of  Dr.  Webster's  Spelling  Book. 

The  periodical  ringing  of  the  bells,  with  the  signs  of 
gathering  and  dispersing  classes,  the  stillness  which  reigns 
through  this  part  of  the  city  during  the  college  exercises, 
and  the  student-like  aspects  of  those  who,  at  other  hours, 
traverse  the  Green,  have  a  tendency  to  direct  the  thoughts 
of  the  spectator  to  subjects  above  the  common  affairs  of 
life,  and  by  elevating  the  mind  and  tranquillizing  the  feel- 
ings, win  from  the  stranger  who  visits  the  place  a 
tribute  of  praise,  the  source  of  which  mp.y  perhaps  be 
more  creditable  to  himstlf  than  he  imagines.  Many  trav- 
ellers have  loved  to  recur  to  the  beauties  of  New-Haven, 
and  to  praise  its  neat  mansions,  extensive  and  blooming 
gardens,  level  lawns  and  luxuriant  foliage,  who  knew  not 
that  the  chief  source  of  tl^eir  enjoyment,  during  their  stay, 


REFINEMENT. 


75 


m  view,  where  this  fine 
the  idea  us  well  as  the 
excluded.  It  is  impos- 
ipse  of  the  Green,  as  it 
lome  of  the  most  favour- 
le,  the  public  or  the  pri- 
House),  withont  experi- 
I  most  agreeable  nature, 
a  venerable  elm  grove 
about  four  hundred  feet 
from  right  to  left.  The 
id  falls  upon  a  long  line 
sription,  standing  like  a 
ig  only  the  general  pro- 
different  tastes,  but  at 
g  to  a  great  height  into 
view  of  the  university, 
unless,  perhaps,  by  the 
r  their  cooling  wares  to 
or  by  the  voices  of  the 
:e,  which  stretch  across 
lieges,  "  as  plain  as  road 
easy  than  the  steep  of 
m  at  first  starting,  in  the 
ng  Book. 

bells,  with  the  signs  of 
le  stillness  which  reigns 
ig  the  college  exercises, 
use  who,  at  other  hours, 
f  to  direct  the  thoughts 
!  the  common  affairs  of 
i  tranquillizing  the  feel- 
10  visits  the  place  a 
which  mp.y  perhaps  be 
i  imagines.  Many  trav- 
)eauties  of  New-Haven, 
extensive  and  blooming 
t  foliage,  who  knew  not 
foment,  during  their  stay, 


had  been  derived  from  another  and  a  higher  cause  J  I.5.V- 
often  hstened  with  pleasure  to  the  encomiums  Z' an  al^ 
poured,  like  a  spontaneous  song,  from  the  hearts  of  many 
refined  strangers  on  the  spot,  because,  while  it  recall  to  mv 
own  mmd  agreeable  impressions,  it  infi.rms  me  that  my 
compamons  hold  learning  in  becoming  regard,  and  re  ofce 
to  see  It  duly  honoured.  ^  rejoice 

But  in  praising  the  fine  part  of  New-Haven  I  wo.i1,J  „«. 
s  .ght  the  remainder  of  the'city.  Many  Tea  "and  no  a  few 
eegam  houses  are  seen  in  other  streets,  esneciwllv  in  S 
vtcnnty  shaded  by  the  rows  of  elms  wh.c7e3  L'n 
every  direction  along  those  which  here  cros  at  rU" 
ang  es  Wuhdrawing  northwardly  along  two  of  tl S 
to  the  distance  of  about  a  quarter  of  a  mL,  you  ente   the 

several  of  the  oldest  and  most  eminent  of  the  professors  of 

trees  of  a  self.plan.ed  2^Z  a^St h relV TofhlJ: 
could  be  more  pleasing  or  appropriate  than  Ue  asp"  t  of 

one  ^f  I     7'  "'''"  '  r'-'''"^  '"  '»>«  twilight'^:    isu 
one  of  the  professors ;  and  nothing  more  accordant  with  Se 
scene  and  the  vicinity  than  the  intelligent  conveTsalior! 
jntngled  with  the  refined  hospitality  and^riendshphlwn 
by  such  of  the  neighbours  as  had  assembled,  to  several  ^6 
rary  strangers  who  presented  themselves  during  the  even  ig" 
One  cannot  but  regret,  after  seeing  such  a  society  5 
us  influence  should  not  be  more  extenfively  exerted^'rlt 
^e  standard  of  conversation  and  manners  in  other  placT 
No  one  can  doubt  that  there  is  a  large  depository  of  powe; 
here  which  mtght,  by  some  means,  be  made  to  op^erateCon 
our  country  extensively.    Much  might  be  done  by  a  peS 
cal  pub  .cation,  devoted  not  so  much  to  the  cuUiva'^^LT  of 
the  higher  branches  of  science  and  literature,  wilh  which 
so  few  have  any  concern,  but  to  the  refinemenr  of  TocS 
intercourse,  the  mcitement  of  parents  to  give  a  prooer  do 

vate  and  public  prosperity  and  happiness.     The  cause  of 


7t 


NBW-HAVEN. 


its  want  is  probably  to  be  attributed  to  the  fact,  that  the 
members  of  this  society  underrate  their  ow.:  powers  and 
opportunities  for  doing  good  in  such  a  manner.  Those  con- 
nected wiih  the  university  are  generally  much  occupied 
with  business  ;  and  there  is  so  much  refinement  around  them 
that  they  do  not,  perhaps,  feel  how  much  it  is  needed  else- 
where. Besides,  ihey  would  be  ready  to  say  that  Yale 
College,  with  the  ten  large  and  respectable  boarding-school* 
in  the  city,  are  constantly  labouring  to  produce  such  an 
effect.  But  how  slight  yet  how  effectual  a  labour  it  would 
be  to  publish  a  monthly  magazine  here,  whose  influence 
should  be  beneficially  felt  throughout  the  Union,  and  which, 
while  it  might  chastise  the  follies  and  frailties  of  certain  in- 
fluential periodicals  now  existing,  might  condescend  to  in- 
struct a  million  of  our  countrymen  in  the  way  to  social 
refinement,  the  bosom  friend  of  moral  and  religious  improve- 
ment. .,       „  ...         r 

A  society  has  been  formed  in  New-Haven  within  a  lew 
months,  for  the  promotion  of  taste  in  civic  architecture,  the 
laying  out  of  grounds,  &c.     A  stranger  would  at  fiist  be 
disposed  to  wonder  less  that  such  a  subject  should  have  at- 
tracted attention  here,  than  that  there  should  have  been  sup- 
posed to  be  room  for  improvement.    And  yet  it  was,  in  fact, 
perfectly  natural  that  such  a  plan  should  have  been  devised 
in  New-Haven;   because   improvements    are   much  more 
likely  to  progress  than  to  begin.     And  how  important  are 
the  objects  embraced  by  this  society !     Our  best  plans  of 
architecture  in  the  United  States  are  notoriously  defective. 
We  have  lived  till  this  time  without  ascertaining  any  prin- 
ciples to  be  observed  in  building  onr  houses,  so  as  to  consult 
the  great  points  that  ought  to  be  regarded.     How  often  do 
we  begin  to  build  without  a  thought  even  of  old  Fuller's 
quaint   remark,   that   light    and    water,    creation's    eldest 
daughters,  should  first  be  sought  in  choosing  a  position  ;  and 
after  this,  how  innumerable  are  the  violations  of  common  sense, 
taste,  and  experience  committed  by  every  person  who  con- 
structs a  residence  for  his  family!    In  fantastical  ornaments 
and  preposterous  novelties,  as  well  as  in  fashions  condemned 
by  every  thing  but  habit,  we  often  see  that  obedience  to  ex- 


am pi 

soimi 

blef. 

he  cl 

parrii 

genei 

tion  I 

vate  ( 

is  no 

paint 

(half 

more 

movin 

guest! 

Ha] 

teach 

of  our 

some 

scenes 

but  ch 

its  gre 

be  no 

ficed,  i 

ceremc 

portam 

only  fc 

occupy 

were  p 

it  is  to 

family 

wise  it 

ceilings 

the  fun 

the  sill 

ideas  c 

back  ev 

on  whii 

What  a 

the  care 


DOMKSTIC  AHRANOEMENTS. 


77 


id  to  the  Tact,  thnt  th« 
their  owi;  powers  and 
a  manner.  Those  con- 
iierally  much  occupied 
refmement  around  them 
much  it  is  needed  clse- 
eady  to  say  that  Yale 
jctablc  boarding-schooU 
ig  to  produce  such  an 
,'clual  a  hibour  it  would 
here,  whose  influence 
It  the  Union,  and  which, 
id  fraihies  of  certain  in- 
[)ight  condescend  to  in- 
n  in  the  way  to  social 
*1  and  religious  improve- 

few-Haven  within  a  few 
in  civic  architecture,  the 
anger  would  at  fiist  be 
I  subject  should  have  ai- 
re should  have  been  sup- 

And  yet  it  was,  in  fact^ 
hould  have  been  devised 
ments   are   much  more 

And  liow  important  are 
ty!  Our  best  plans  of 
ire  notoriously  defective, 
ut  ascertaining  any  prin- 
r  houses,  so  as  to  consult 
egarded.  How  often  do 
3[ht  even  of  old  Fuller's 
water,  creation's  eldest 
choosing  a  position  ;  and 
nlations  of  common  sense, 
y  every  person  who  con- 
In  fantastical  ornaments 
as  in  fashions  condemned 
see  that  obedience  to  ex- 


ample wh.ch  ought  to  \ye  yiehled  only  to  pure  taste  and 
sound  judgment  The  purse-proud  descendant  of  a  venera- 
ble family,  to  obliterate  every  trace  of  an  education  which 
he  chooses  to  despise,  and  with  the  feelings  almost  of  a 
parrifide,  levels  the  noble  elms  that  defended  worthier 
generations  from  the  storms;  before  he  lays  the  founda- 
tion of  some  glaring  structu.e,  which  he  thinks  will  capti- 
vate every  eye.  Sc.me  of  our  countrymen  believe  that  there 
18  no  architectural  taste  independent  of  red.  green,  or  blue 
p..ml;  whi  e  others,  especially  in  the  capitals,  sleep  eontent 
(half  a  day  s  journey  in  the  air.)  if  they  succeed  in  Iniildine 
more  spacious  parlours  than  their  neighbours,  and  in  re- 
moving one  more  convenience  to  make  room  for  a  few  more 
guests  at  an  occasional  winter's  jam. 

Happy  would  it  be,  if  the  society  above  referred  to  could 
teach  us  how  to  consult  our  own  comfort,  and  .he  benefit 
of  our  children,  m  the  plan  of  a  house  ;  if  it  could  convince 
some  parents  that  our  dwellings  sl,„„ld  sometimes  be  the 
scenes  of  unostentatious,  sin.-ere,  and  Chiis.ian  hospiiality; 
but  chiefly  planned  and  furnished  with  a  serious  regard  to 
us  great  object,-the  training  of  their  children.     There  can 
be  no  fireside  in  a  house  where  every  thing  has  been  sacrl- 
ficed,  in  the  plan  and  the  furniture,  to  the  hollow  and  ruinous 
ceremonies  of  fashionable  life.    The  fireside  is  of  but  little  im- 
portance,  I  know,  in  the  view  of  persons  who  profess  to  live 
only  for  the  present  time  ;  but  this  is  a  subject  which  miifht 
occupy  the  attention  at  least  of  some  reflecting  persons,  if  it 
were  properly  brought  up  to  their  notice.     How  impossible 
It  IS  to  reconcile  the  demands  of  fashion  and  of  dutj- on  the 
family  of  one  of  our  wealthy  citizens !     How  much  more 
wise  It  would  be  to  contract  the  walls  and  depress  the 
ceilings  of  our  houses  to  a  reasonable  size,  and  tear  off"  from 
the  furniture  of  our  children's  apartments  some  portion  of 
he  silks  and  gildings  with  which  we  early  implant  false 
Ideas  of  the  world  and  their  own  importance,  and  brinir 
back  every  thing  at  once  to  the  intellectual  anc  moral  scall 
on  which  some  of  our  ancestors  ordered  their  household ' 
What  ages,  what  centuries  of  time  would  be  rescued  from 
the  cares  of  spacious  and  gaudy  apartments,  the  conversa- 


NEW-HAVEN. 


tions  of  heartless  and  formal  visiters ;  what  a  round  of  new 
and  nobler  topics  and  daily  pleasures  might  he  substituted ; 
what  a  revolution  might  be  effected  in  the  occupations  and 
feelings  of  families ;  how  many  a  child  might  be  saved  a 
banishment,  who  is  now  annually  expelled  from  the  parental 
roof,  to  seek  afar  a  guardian  and  instructer,  denied  by  fashion 
at  home ;  how  many  a  fireside  might  be  daily  and  nightly 
gladdened  with  circles  of  well-taught  and  affectionate 
brothers  and  sisters,  instead  of  being  devoted  to  frivolous 
morning  calls,  and  trampled  by  nightly  dancers  ! 

Incontestibly  many  comforts  and  advantages  of  different 
kinds  might  accrue  from  the  improvement  of  architectural 
taste  and  science,  in  our  country  at  large.  A  sightly  man- 
sion may  be  erected  at  less  expense  than  is  often  bestowed 
on  a  pile  of  deformity;  and  not  only  convenience  but  health 
may  be  secured  by  a  judicious  plan  in  building.  The  plant- 
ing of  trees  on  private  grounds  often  contributes  to  the  grati- 
fication of  neighbours  and  the  beauty  of  a  town ;  and  the 
laying  out  and  decorating  of  public  squares,  although  so 
generally  neglected  among  us,  might  easily  be  rendered 
subservient  to  the  improvement  of  public  taste,  intelligence, 
tad  morality.  Whoever  has  been  in  Switzerland  or  other 
foreign  countries,  where  rural  seats  are  provided  at  the  way- 
side, near  fountains,  on  hill  tops,  or  under  the  most  venera- 
ble shades,  for  the  convenience  of  foot-travellers,  must  recall 
with  pleasure  the  agreeable  impressions  they  give  of  the  re- 
finement of  the  inhabitants.  What  a  total  absence  of  all 
such  feelings,  on  the  contrary,  is  caused,  as  we  pass 
along  our  own  roads,  to  sec  no  trace  of  any  tiling  done  for 
the  benefit  of  a  stranger !  The  road  side  is  often  studiously 
deprived  of  foliage;  and  it  is  rare  that  so  much  as  a  rock 
can  be  found  proper  to  afford  a  convenient  seat.  On  enter- 
ing our  villages  also,  is  there  any  little  grove,  or  even  a 
single  tree  provided  with  benches,  from  which  one  may 
survey  the  objects  around  him  ?  A  trough  may  have  been 
placed  for  tlie  benefit  of  the  cattle,  to  receive  the  water  of 
a  rill ;  but  why  is  man  considered  as  so  far  beneath  all  no- 
tice ?  The  inn  and  the  drinking  shop  indeed  are  open ;  but 
would  not  their  evil  influence  be  diminished,  if  every  village 


we 

wil 
the 
lilt 
pro 
tre< 
aff( 

>"'« 

ab 

pro 

1 

ten( 

sho 

war 

my 

roue 

mer 

oft! 

com 

grea 

plaii 

min^ 

allel 

then 

ing  . 

sum 

•ng  I 
aroui 
view 
pellii 
of  de 
ing  a 
with 
This 
is  far 
it ;  HI 
scene 
here  1 
ofNe 


BVRYINO-OROVND. 


n 


;  what  a  round  of  new 
I  might  he  substituted ; 
in  the  occupations  and 
hild  might  be  saved  a 
elled  Trom  the  parental 
jcter,  denied  by  fashion 
It  be  daily  anil  nightly 
Light    and    affectionate 
ig  devoted  to  frivolous 
lly  dancers ! 
advantages  of  different 
vement  uf  architectural 
large.     A  sightly  man- 
than  is  often  bestowed 
convenience  but  health 
n  building.    The  plant- 
contributes  to  the  grati- 
fy of  a  town ;  and  the 
c  squares,  although  so 
[ht  easily  be  rendered 
iiblic  taste,  intelligence, 
in  Switzerland  or  other 
ire  provided  at  the  way- 
under  the  most  venera- 
n-travellers,  must  recall 
ons  they  give  of  the  re- 
a  total  absence  of  all 
i   caused,  as   we  pass 
!  of  any  thing  done  for 
side  is  often  studiously 
that  so  much  as  a  rock 
enicnt  seat.     On  enter- 
little  grove,  or  even  a 
from  which  one  may 
.  trough  may  have  been 
to  receive  the  water  of 
s  so  far  beneath  all  no- 
>p  indeed  are  open ;  but 
finished,  if  every  village 


were  provided  with  a  little  shady  »reen,  furnished  at  least 
with  a  few  seats  in  the  shade,  where  the  youth  and  age  of 
the  place  might  meet  at  sunset  in  the  summer  ?  With  how 
Iiltle  expense  might  the  spi.tbe  beautified,  and,  if  necessary, 
protected  by  a  keeper!  Winding  paths  are  easily  made 
trees  are  easily  planted,  and  will  grow  if  let  alone;  flowers 
afford  a  cheap  and  delightful  ornament;  and  how  easily 
might  tasteful  arbours  or  rotundas  be  supplied  with  a  vase, 
a  buHt,  or  even  a  statue,  such  as  native  artists  can  easily 
produce !  ' 

But  this  fertile  subject  has  led  me  far  beyond  my  in- 
tended  limits.     Let  us  turn  to  the  decorated  ground  which 
shows,  alas  !  a  profusion  of  marble  monuments,  a  little  west- 
ward  of  the  beautiliil  Avenue  of  which  I  have  spoken.     lo 
my  view,  the  burying-ground  of  New-Haven  has  been  too 
much  praised,  as  it  can  lay  no  claims  to  an  equality,  as  a 
mere  object  of  taste,  with  that  great  and  beautiful  depository 
of  the  dead  of  Pans  with  whi.^h  it  has  most  frequently  beeti 
compared.     The  cemetery  of  Pcire  la  Chaise  occupies  a 
great  extent  of^  irregular  ground,  instead  of  being  a  mere 
plain  of  limited  size;  and  in  place  of  small  monument., 
mingled  with   many  upright  slabs,  planted   in  lines    par- 
allel with    the  straight   poplars,  which  imperfectly  shade 
tfiem,  presents  a  long  succession  of  more  cosily  and  tower- 
mg  obelisks,  pyramids,  and  fabrics  of  different  styles,  half 
surrounded  by  clusters  of  various  trees  and  shrubs,  occupy- 
ing  points  favourable  to  eflect.     The  paths  wind  over  and 
around  many  a  little  eminence,  sometimes  confining  the 
view  of  the  solitary  visiter  to  objects  close  beside  him,  com- 
pel  ing  him  to  think  of  some  individual  among  the  multitudes 
of  dead,  and  perhaps  to  read  his  epitaph ;  sometimes  afford- 
mg  a  distant  view  of  the  metropolis,  and  filling  the  mind 
with  a  solemn  and  instructive  lesson  concerning  the  livinjr. 
This  .8  a  brief  picture  of  Pere  la  Chaise,  as  the  cemeteAr 
IS  familiarly  denomiriHted :  ilu,t  is,  of  the  better  portion  of 
It ;  and  how  can  a  comparison  be  instituted  between  its  rural 
scenery  and  luxurious   monuments  and  anything  we  find 
fiere?     Perhaps  all  iho  marble  in  the  whole  burying-ground 
of  New-Haven  would  hardly  be  sufficient  to  construct  some 


I 


r~ 


10  NKW-IIAVCN. 

single  momiments  crc.-tecl  to  l'iiriHi;ins.  Hut,  for  all  iho 
nurposrs  lor  whirl,  ii  plitcc  of  iiiU'rinent  hIiouUI  bo  planiicil 
and  visiie.l,  that  of  iNcw-liavci  ap|.cari-a  to  me  as  lar  mipc- 
rior  tt»  ll.al  of  I'arw  an  I  .an  po.s.l.ly  iU'^-nhv.  Oiu-  ol  the 
most  «pU-mlKl  H11UCIUI..S  in  ilw  laiicr  is  that  ol  Al..^lar.l  ami 
H.Moisc !  What  man  of  intflUict,  not  to  say  ol  rdiKion,  or 
even  of  nioralilv,  <lo.'s  not  fwl  nisull.'.l  hy  «n.-h  a  la.'t  ?  I 
will  not  speak  of  that  larir,.  portion  of  tin;  jrrouml  which  is 
duK  over  onee  in  a  few  ye.irs. 

The  son!  which  "  stariU^s  at  rternity,"  «oes  to  the  grave- 
yanl  to  learn  som.ahinir  of  the  import  of  ho  diea.   a  word. 
TriHes,  sueh  a8  wealth,  taste,  learnintr  (so  called),  honour 
that  eometh  not  frcnn  tJod,  glory  that  survives  not  death, 
man  knows  to.,  well  to  he  willing  seriously  to  mvest.Kute 
their  nature.     If  he  endures  them  at  all,  he  seeks  ever  to 
min«lc  with  the  crowd  whi.;h  proclaims  them  as  wo.th  more 
than  they  are.     VV..rldly  men,  therefore,  you  tind  not  going 
to  the  grave,  to  weep,  or  even  to  meditate  there.    'I'he  place 
then  must  have   a  solemn  8erm.)n   prepared  to  preach  to 
every  visiter,  on  the  end  of  all  things,-of  all  things  hut  one. 
It  must  have  thouglits  rea.ly  to  suggest  on  the  impermhable 
nature  of  the  soul,  the  superior  importance  of  every  thing 
that  may  lead  it  to  future  happiness,  and  the  danger  of  for- 
getting its  inestimable  worth  among  the  glare  ol  the  baubles 
around  us.     Whatever  there  be,  therefore,  in  a  cemetery, 
which  does  not  ten.l  to  depreciate  this  world  in  our  esteem, 
and  to  exalt  the  future,  is  out  of  place;  and  whatever  the 
obic't  be,  it  proclaims  that  the  author  of  it  was  entirely 
ignorant  of  the  task  he  had  undertaken,  and  had  no  mind 
capable  of  comprehending  the  subject. 

While,  therefore,  I  state  a  plain  truth,  that  there  are 
finer  serpentine  walks,  more  costly  and  splendid  monuments 
in  PiVe  la  (Jhaise,  I  insist  that  more  judgment,  far  higher 
taste  has  been  shown  in  the  New-Haven  burying-ground. 
In  my  view  also  the  same  might  be  said  of  every  village 
burying-irround  in  our  country,  were  it  not  for  the  too 
limite.1  si/c  generally  allowed  them,  and  the  too  common 
neglect  with  wliich  they  arc  tr.jated.  I  speak  from  a  deep 
sentiment  of  my  heart  when  I  say,  that  a  secure  enclosure, 


l;ins.  nut,  for  nil  tho 
inent  hIiouUI  be  |)laniicd 
■iirid  U)  me  »«  lar  wupo- 
y  {U'Hvnhv,  One  of  the 
r  is  lliiit  ol  AWolard  and 
lol  to  say  ol'  rt'linioii,  or 
illcil  liy  Mucli  a  fact  ?  1 
of  llic  grouiul  winch  is 

iiity,"  ntx's  to  llio  grave- 
port  of  so  (lr«!a(l  a  woril. 
mint?  (so  calUiil),  honour 
ihat  Miirvivps  not  death, 

seriously  to  investigate 
at  all,  he  seeks  ever  to 
liins  them  as  woith  more 
elore,  you  tiiul  not  going 
editate  there.    'I'he  place 
I   prepared  to  preach  to 
,, — of  all  tinngs  hut  one. 
gest  on  the  imperishable 
iportance  of  every  thing 
i,  and  the  danger  of  for- 
;  the  glare  of  the  baubles 
hereforc,  in  a  cemetery, 
:\i\a  world  in  our  esteem, 
ilace;  and  whatever  the 
luthor  of  it  was  entirely 
irtaken,  and  had  no  mind 
lect. 
^in  truth,  that  there  are 

and  splendid  monuments 
ore  judgment,  far  higher 
w-llaven  burying-ground. 

be  said  of  every  village 
tvere  it  not  for  the  too 
em,  and  the  too  common 
•d.  I  speak  from  a  deep 
ff  that  a  secure  enclosure, 


tOLONEt  TRVMnrLL's  PAINTIXffS.  3, 

ri  few  Rravrlied  vvalk«,   shaded  by  willows,  enriched  with 

lowenn,.   shr,.l,s.  .„d  d.cen.iy   secluded    fonrnos'T, 

.  .r^  .  wo.dd  („rn,sh  evny  vilh.gn  with  a  d,,.o.i . "    I    J^' 

dead  n.orc  appropriate,  more  truly   l.ranff.l,   u.  d    0      he 

travel'le/'i'v;'""  '"'  '""  '"  '"'""'^•''^  ''"  "'"  ^^^''tilication  the 
uavc  Icr  exp..ri.„ce8    on  cnt.'ring  th,,    rn„,kli„   Insij  ,  tp 

suchuutZ        ;        ■■'"■''•■'"  ""y  ""'•■■•  '-"y"^  country,  of 
■such  a  union  ?     I„  a  Hpacous  wing  of  the  hotel,  over  the 

.n.ng-roo,n.  the  lod,.r  may  cross%  passage  a  do    a 
ne  I.,.tur..-roo,n,  lurnished  with  seats  for  two  or  thr       , un' 
Ired  pooplo,  with  a  desk  for  a  lecturer,  having  a  neat  laho  ^ 
loryan.l  apparatus  in  view,  a  niche  for  receivers  wi  h      fiTo 
to  take  oir  o.Iensive  gas<..s,  a  study  a.ljoining.  In'.ra  «;  v    e 
passage  to  a  line  mineralogieal  ciine't.  occupyi.  I  the  t ,  rd 
story,  to  w  u.-h  you  arc  next  intro.iuced      Tl^St  itio     J 
due  entirely  to  the  intelligence  and  liberality  Tf  ir  A  "el 
Brewster,  a  wealthy  mechanic  of  this  city,  who  riannedl  id 
founded  u  at  h.s  ow..  expense,  for  the  benefit  of 'the  cUiz  I 
A  course  of  scientific  lectures  is  delivered  every  w^^te  ' 
principally  by  the  professors  of  Yale  College,  To  wl ich 
tickets  are  obtained  for  two  dollars.     The  pfo  essor!  md 
0  her  literary  gentlemen  of  the  place  afford  iuheir  col;  ,e- 
nance  and  labours;  and  the  influence  upon  the  inhabitants 
has  been  very  beneficial,  especially  those  who  have  ^ 
many  other  sources  of  instruction.     Such  an  examole  from 
an  intelligent  and  highly  philanthropic  indivTduTl!  should 
provoke  to  imitation  some  of  those  in  other  places  ;hopo  - 
seas  the  power  of  promoting  the  great  interests  of  the  pubUc 
in  a  similar  manner.  i^uuui- 

™„^r"?'*7"  ''a^.heen  greatly  enriched  within  a  few 
months  by  the  acquisuion  of  some  of  the  invaluable  pabZ 
uipio  Colonel  John  Trumbull,  which  are  now  deposited! 
Lvctm^  Vr'"^  by  subscription  in  the  rear  of  the  Col  We 
J'onT;  'r'*^''  "  itself  worthy  of  particular  at.eS 

tion,  on  account  of  its  neat  and  correct  architecture,  and  L 
appropriate  plan  for  the  objects  designed.     It  is  nJrtus 

8 


8a 


NEW-HAVEN. 


the  Vatican,  among  otheis,  suner  "'""."■''.,,,,.    j^  „. 
t  nnrd     Some  of  the  exhibition-rooms  m  Philadelphia,  wew 

hrour,  and  tc  Icr.owthat  this  arrangement  has  been  made 
bv  the  liberality  of  some  of  his  feilow-citizens. 
^Of  tvl  full  value  of  the  national  paintings  of  thi.  art  st, 
it  ^?i^l  be  mpossible  to  indge  until  time  shall  have  enabled 
!i,  ^,  Win  mow.  iustlv  to  appreciate  it.  But  how  happy  it  is 
hXoLe  oVw^^^^^  family  should  have  been  able 

a  ViuTs  disposed  to  re  .ord  the  principal  events  of  our  re- 
Jolvtbnin  this  most  interesting  and  i»«7f.^'^^"r"«;V^"^ 
L, reserve  the  portraits  of  the  most  distinguished  actors 
Xe  on  the  s  A  I  -uld  not  but  wish  that  a  suggestion 
heard  made  some  months  since  might  ere  long  be  earned 
nto  effect,  viz.  that  lectures  should  be  delivered,  to  the  stu- 
dents  and  others,  on  these  pictures,  embracmg  those  mstnict- 
te  historical  ani  biographical  details  in  -h.ch  our  revolj. 
tionary  period  so  greatly  abounded,  and  in  which  our  youth 
ought  to  be  frequenUy  and  familiarly  schooled. 


h 
fi 
el 

aj 
of 

he 

of 

sti 
ap 

St( 

wl 

Al 

int 
he 
utt 
ta? 
its 
wh 

Le 

on 

try 

tha 

oth 

pri: 

res 

prii 

elsi 

ma 

anc 

wri 

but 

lik« 

or 

Ap( 

hav 

day 


TRUE  AMERICAN-  TASTE. 


83 


•f  Europe  there  is  not  one 
1  have  bevn  made  for  the 
1  and  admission  of  light, 
arge,  and  opening  nearly 
,  multitude  of  cross  lights ; 
lent  ia  thrown  into  deep 
rh  the  whole  gallery  of  the 
B  in  length,  and  not  see  a 
B  in  Italy  the  pictures  in 
upon  hinges,  and  those  of 
from  the  evils  above  men- 
3oms  in  Philadelphia,  New- 
other  cities,  are  now  more 
The  rotunda  of  the  capitol 
kind,  reminding  one  of  the 
rh  constructed  primarily  for 
\  of  the  finest  galleries  for 
r  visiting   the   well-known 
oUege,  I  entered  the  gallery 
I  light  admitted  from  above, 
Tn.mbuU ;  and  it  is  doubly 
;m  deposited  in  a  permanent 
ich  he  has  done  so  much  to 
rrangement  has  been  made 
fellow-citizens, 
mal  paintings  of  thi«  artist, 
mtil  time  shall  have  enabled 
date  it.     But  how  happy  it  is 
family  should  have  been  able 
lie  principal  events  of  our  re- 
r  and  instructive  manner,  and 
e  most  distinguished  actors, 
but  wish  that  a  suggestion  I 
:e  might  ere  long  be  carried 
lould  be  delivered,  to  the  stu- 
ires,  embracing  those  instnict- 
details  in  which  our  revolu- 
nded,  and  in  which  our  youth 
liliarly  schooled. 


I 


I  was  exceedingly  mortified,  however,  to  find  in  the  State 
House,  a  copy  of  Trumbull's  Declaration  of  Independence, 
furtively  made  by  a  raw  young  artist,  which  has  been  pur- 
chased by  the  Legislature,  and  hung  up  in  the  hall.  This 
appeared  to  me  as  discreditable  a  reflection  upon  tlie  want 
of  taste  and  the  abundance  of  parsimony  as  tliat  body  could 
have  cast  upon  itself. 

The  State  House  is  a  beautiful  edifice,  built  on  the  model 
of  a  fine  Grecian  temple,  in  pure  taste,  and  is  handsomely 
stuccoed  m  imitation  of  granite.  These  perishable  materials 
appear  ill  whfi  betrayed  under  the  thin  disguise  of  mock 
stone.  The  Gothic  Church  near  by  already  shows  the 
white  pme  under  the  glazing  of  brown  paint  and  sand. 
Apropos,  speaking  of  the  Gothic  style,— Why  should  it  be 
introduced  into  America  ?  There  is  not  a  feature  in  society 
here  which  bears  the  slightest  aflinity  with  it;  and  so 
utterly  opposed  is  it  to  the  principles  of  pure  and  refined 
tasne,  that  nothing  makes  it  at  all  tolerable  in  Europe,  except 
Its  known  connexion  with  the  days  of  semi-barbarism  in 
which  it  flourished. 

But  it  is  more  agreeable  to  approve  than  to  condemn. 
Let  us  take  this  favourable  opportunity  to  reflect  a  moment 
on  a  national  taste  in  the  fine  arts,  appropriate  to  our  coun- 
try.     In  architecture  it  is  much  easier  to  say  what  does  not 
than  what  does  suit  our  circumstances.    I  will  leave  that  to 
others  for  the  present,  hoping  they  may  apply  to  it  those 
principles  of  common  sense  which  I  wish  to  suggest  in 
respect  to  a  sister  art.     In  painting,  we  ought  to  fix  our 
principles  distinctly.     We  ought  not  in  this  or  any  thing 
else,  servilely  to  follow  the  example  of  any,  «ven  the 
masters  of  the  art.     We  are  to  imitate  the  style  of  the  best 
ancient  orators,  poets,  and  historians,  when  we  speak  and 
write;  but  how?     By  using  exactly  their  words?     No; 
but  by  saying  what  they  would  have  said  if  they  had  been 
like  us,  and  in  our  places.     So,  when  we  come  to  painting 
or  to  sculpture,  we  should  not  merely  copy  .lupiters,  or 
Apollos,  or  Laocoons.    Apelles  and  Praxiteles  would  not 
have  produced  such  personages  if  they  had  flourished  in  our 
days  in  the  Western  Continent.    Long  were  the  arts  smoth- 


I 


I 


r 


84 


KEW-HAVEN. 


ered  in  Europe  under  the  weight  of  ancient  example ;  and 
when  West  roused  up  from  the  revery  enouf  h  to  throw  off 
the  drapery  of  amiquity,  they  breathed  more  freely.     But 
West  went  not  into  the  proper  American  domam.     He  was 
indeed  unfavourably  situated  to  do  so,  for  he  was  in  Europe. 
We  find  him  therefore,  when  out  of  scripture  and  poetical 
subjects,  commemorating  the  death  of  Wolfe  at  Quebec,  and 
making  his  hero  with  his  last  breath  applaud  a  victory  m 
which  no  principle  was  involved,  and  from  which  (lowed  no 
result  of  interest  to  mankind.     The  tale  to  be  told  on  his 
canvass  was  the  old  bald  tale  of  military  adventure :  directed 
by  a  ministry  three  thousand  miles  distant,  with  money 
which  they  seem  to  have  expended  chiefly  for  their  own 
credit.     Mditary  glory  is  the  highest  motive  you  can  attri- 
bute to  any  of  the  personages  of  whom  the  groups  must  be 
formed ;  and  the  whole  work  is  but  the  old  song  of  false 
praise  to  war  and  bloody  victory. 

But   how  diflerent  from  all   this  are   the   paintings  ol 
Trumbull !     How  much  more  appropriate  to  the  principles 
we  profess  !    Each  of  the  personages  presents  an  instruct- 
jve  lesson  in  his  history.     Here  is  no  son,  whose  name 
■was  inscribed  on  the  army  list  merely  to  secure  him  a  pro- 
fession.    The  simple  insignia  of  these  soldiers  were  not 
purchased  with  money,  and  no  accident  or  fatality  brought 
them  together.     The  war  in  which  they  engaged  had  not 
been  waged  for  the  exaltation  of  an  ambitious  general, 
or  to  slake  the  thirst  of  any  tyrant  for  blood ;    and  the 
actors  were  not   the  blind  servants  of  one   whose   com- 
mands might  not   be   questioned.     Each  man  had  inde- 
pendently acted  in  obedience  to  his  own  judgment,  and  in 
accordance  with  his  own  feelings.     His  education  had  been 
such  as  to  strengthen  his  mind,  and  to  cultivate  pure  mo- 
tives ;  and  the  great  proof  of  the  patriotism  of  our  army  was 
shown  by  their  quietly  di:,banding   and  returning  to  their 
homes  when  the  war  had  been  terminated.     Other  troops, 
after  obtaining  victory,  would  have  considered  their  own 
great  object  yet  unaccomplished,  while  their  pay  was  with- 
held ;  and  would  have  been  ready  to  ravage  their  country 
to  reward  or  revenge  themselves.     But  the  men  whom  our 


gre 

att; 

sigi 

pel 

just 

whi 

thei 

Ii 

cial] 

be  a 

doul 

CoU 

valu 

coun 

fulnf 

The 

difTei 

culti) 

Unio 

struc 

nent] 

andtl 

inade 

Th 

schoo 

and  ii 

pleasi 

ing. 

port  0 

them; 

do,  thi 

import 

home, 

genera 

institui 

rated  1 

againsi 

ing.     i 

to  be 


f  ancient  example ;  and 
iry  enouf  h  to  throw  off 
thed  more  freely.     But 
rican  domain.     He  was 
o,  for  he  was  in  Europe, 
f  scripture  and  poetical 
of  Wolfe  at  Quebec,  and 
ilh  applaud  a  victory  in 
id  from  which  flowed  no 
;  tale  to  be  told  on  his 
itary  adventure :  directed 
[fs  distant,  whh  money 
ed  chiefly  for  their  own 
;st  motive  you  can  attri- 
^hom  the  groups  must  be 
lit  the  old  song  of  false 

lis  are  the  paintings  of 
ropriate  to  the  principles 
ges  presents  an  instruct- 

is  no  son,  whose  name 
rely  to  secure  him  a  pro- 

these  soldiers  were  not 
xident  or  fatality  brought 
ch  they  engaged  had  not 
)f  an  ambitious  general, 
rant  for  blood;  and  the 
nts  of  one  whose  com- 
.  Each  man  had  inde- 
his  own  judgment,  and  in 
His  education  had  been 
and  to  cultivate  pure  mo- 
(atriotism  of  our  army  was 
ig  and  returning  to  their 
erminated.  Other  troops, 
ive  considered  their  own 
while  tlieir  pay  was  with- 
Jy  to  ravage  their  country 
But  the  men  whom  our 


CAUSES  OF  tANOUISHlNO  COLLEGES.  88 

great  artist  has  preserved  on  his  canvass,  maintained  the 
attachment  of  children  to  their  country,  and  voluntarily  re- 
8,gned  that  power  by  which  alone  they  might  have  com- 
pelled  the  satisfaction  of  their  claims,  although  they  were 
just  and  undisputed.  Posterity  will  have  the  discrimination 
which  we  want,  and  appreciate  such  works  according  to 
tneir  merits.  ° 

riil  ''^\''^«°  lamented  that  some  of  our  states,  and  espe- 
cially  such  as  have  contained  the  best  of  our  colleges,  should 
be  so  parsimonious  in  rendering  them  pecuniary  aid.  No 
doubt  a  few  thousands  of  dollars,  if  conferred  upon  Yale 
valuo^^  T^-  r"  «g°'  ^«»ld  have  proved  of  extreme 
lolnU  ^'IVT'T,"^  ^*'™'"^  '"  Connecticut  and  the 
country.  She  has  had  to  struggle  with  poverty,  or  her  use- 
Jjiness,  great  as  it  has  been,  might  have  been  doubled. 
I  he  legislature  of  tne  state  has  appeared  unaccountably  in- 

cutvt?i,n%  ™"^'  ""^^^  ."  P°^^^«^'«"  «f  "^^^^  fo'  its 
Un  on.  This  I  attribute  to  the  habit  of  receiving  early  in- 
strucuon  m  the  district  schools  at  the  expense  of  a  peLa- 
nent  fund ;  to  the  division  which  is  made  between  those  fully 
and  those  partially  educated ;  and,  perhaps,  above  all,  to  the 
inadequacy  of  common  education. 

The  right  of  every  parent  to  send  his  ehild  to  a  district 
school  IS  considered  as  entire  as  the  claim  to  air  and  water; 
and  mdeed  many  resist  taking  more  instruction  than  thev 
please,  as  they  would  object  to  excessive  eating  or  breath- 
ing.    The  people  are  not  called  upon  to  provide  for  the  sup- 
port of  their  schools,  nor  obliged  at  any  time  to  go  without 
them;  and  therefore  do  not  often  contemplate,  if  they  ever 
Ho,  the  real  value  of  regular  education.     Besides,  th    most 
important  part  of  the  instruction  is  often  communicaiad  at 
home,  and  this  may  be  another  reason  why  there  is  no 
general  aisposition  among  the  people  to  be  liberal  to  literary 
mstitutions.     Practical  knowledge  is  too  generally  under- 
rated by  men  of  regular  education,  and  this  fosters  jealousy 
agamst  them,  and  provokes  contempt  for  theoretical  learn- 
ing,    btudy  and  work  are  so  entirely  separated,  in  short,  as 
to  be  kept  ignorant  of  each  other;  and  there  has  been 

8* 


86 


SAYHROOK  POINT. 


r 


popular  ignorance  and  jealousy  enough  to  let  tiiis   chief 
literary  institution  of  the  slate  languish  for  many  yean. 
Yale  College  has  recently  received  above  one  liundred  thou- 
sand dollars  in  subscriptions  from  its  alumni  and  friends  in 
different  parts  of  the  country,  although  about  an  equal  sum 
has  been  contributed  at  the  same  time  for  several  other  insti- 
tutions in  New-England.     While  these  instances  of  enlight- 
ened liberality  authorize  us  to  indulge  hopes  that  learning 
will  be  supported  in  the  Union  by  the  public;  the  past 
warns  us  of  the  danger  which  it  incurs  among  a  people 
educated  on  a  defective  plan,  and  claims  the  immediate  im- 
provement of  common  schools  :  even  those  of  Connecticut, 
which  have  been  greatly  overrated. 

Saybrook,  on  the  western  side  of  Connecticut  River,  at 
its  mouth,  was  the  first  place  occupied  by  the  English  in 
New-England,  after  leaving  the  coast  of  Massachusetts 
Bay.  After  repeated  solicitations  from  the  Indians,  who 
originally  occupied  the  banks  of  this  delightful  stream,  and 
had  been  driven  from  the  western  shore  by  the  Mohawks, 
the  governor  of  Plymouth  Colony  sent  Lieutenant  Gardner 
with  a  few  soldiers  to  occupy  this  post,  for  fear  lest  the 
Dutch  should  anticipate  him.  He  arrived  only  a  few  hours 
before  a  Dutch  vessel  appeared  from  New-York,  which 
sailed  up  and  foundMl  a  settlement  at  Hartford,  under  the 
patronage  of  the  Mohawks. 

The  steamboats  stop  at  Saybrook  Point,  which  is  about 
a  mile  from  the  village.     Here  are  a  few  houses,  several  of 
which  receive  boarders  during  the  summer  season.     I  may 
give  the  results  of  a  morning's  observations,  during  a  walk 
I  took  between  sunrise  and  breakfast  time.    Saybrook  Point 
is  nearly  in  the  form  of  a  circle,  being  a  peninsula,  con- 
nected with  the  mainland  by  a  very  narrow  neck,  over 
which  the  tide  sometimes  flows,  and  having  a  broad  and 
handsome  bay  of  shallow  water  on  each  side.     The  soil  is 
sandy  and  poor,  and  tlie  elevation  of  the  highest  part,  which 
is  near  the  middle,  is  not  above  twenty  feet.     The  remains 
of  the  fort  are  on  a  small  spot  of  ground  at  the  extremity  of 
the  peninsula ;  but  the  site  of  the  first  fort  is  believed  to 
have  been  worn  away  by  the  encroachments  of  the  waves. 


I 

ca 

th 

W 

ha 

In 

to 

ab 

M« 

coi 

bai 

ere 

ins 

stai 

wh 

Th 

ing 

the 

'J 

squi 

and 

thar 

Ths 

buili 

Cou 

yard 

thre( 

New 

in  th 

well 

child 

11 

affec 

refin* 

with 

apprc 

lievcc 

thecl 

were 


augh  to  let  tills  chief 
§uish  for  many  yearf>. 
bove  one  liundred  thou- 
i  alumni  and  friends  in 
gh  about  an  equal  sum 
ic  for  several  other  insti- 
Dse  instances  of  enlight- 
Ige  hopes  that  learning 
y  the  public;  the  past 
incurs  among  a  people 
laims  the  immediate  im- 
n  those  of  Connecticut, 

jf  Connecticut  River,  at 
pied  by  the  English  in 
coast  of  Massachusetts 
from  the  Indians,  who 
lis  delightful  stream,  and 
shore  by  the  Mohawks, 
sent  Lieutenant  Gardner 
s  post,  for  fear  lest  the 
arrived  only  a  few  hours 
from  New-York,  which 
It  at  Hartford,  under  the 

ok  Point,  which  is  about 
a  few  houses,  several  of 
summer  season.  I  may 
servations,  during  a  walk 
St  time.  Saybrook  Point 
being  a  peninsula,  con- 
very  narrow  neck,  over 
and  having  a  broad  and 
n  each  side.  The  soil  is 
of  the  highest  part,  which 
'enty  feet.  The  remains 
[round  at  the  extremity  of 
;  first  fort  is  believed  to 
oachments  of  the  waves. 


AN  OLD  matron's  OPINIONS.  77 

have  loc„  ,„e  r,;,  ,p.  Z  :>£r„,  'Ktrrt 

«„„  l,r,.c,„  „;„  now  Xi„:' StTo'L"";    T"" 

Mounta  ns,  it  gave  me  i  strilln„  ;         rT  "^  ^^^''^V 

country  in  two  hurJred  yet"'  On\f 'f  ^'"''T  '"'^'^ 
bank  stands  an  anciem  mo  Lorn  ''  co"!  /'"^ ''^^' 
erected  to  Lady  Arabella  Fe  wi  k  wh  ch T,  """'' 
inscription,  ^and  is  entirely  n  gTecte'd  S  'h  T',  "'^ 
standing  to  comply  with  L  r^^ns  of  th.'^  ^T 

ing  to  thJ  feeLgs,  ^1!^;^:^^^::^  '"^'-r 
the  deceased  is  called  to  mind  character  of 

The  land  on  the  Point  is  laid  out  in  Urrr.  r  .  i 
squares,asitwasoriginallyintendedforL    ^       '-'t  '"^ 
and  Oliver  Cromwellfwith  other  ^ttnj^^  .^''^  ? 

than  himself,  was  once,  it  is  sair^clX  e^baS^^^^^^^ 
Thames  to  occupy  the  ground  Th»  r  "^^^^"^  '"  the 
building  which  Z  once'7ae  cXt  r  etn:  "r  t^ 
Court  House,  and  the  ancient  gravZjoLT.  th    i       '''" 

.n  tta  .,a.e,     Captai,,  Docy's  hous.  a„J  X  tor  -i, 

I  had  some  conversation  with  nn  nM  ™„. 
a*e.ed  „ig„,,,  „,„,,„,  ...Zlri^dlS™;:';;:  Z 

.he  character  of  our  ancestor,  anj  fl  L  dS"         '  T'? 
were  formerly  experienced  here."  StdleTa'^S 


r 


88 


A  CONNECTICUT  VILLAOK. 


room  race,  which  had  risen  after  the  Revolutionary  War, 
very  unlike  their  fathers,  caring  nothing  for  them,  and  want- 
ing  only  to  amass  money;  but  she  believea  times  were 
better  now,  and  it  had  become  quite  the  fashion  to  search 
for  antiquities.  It  seemed  to  her  like  the  Book  of  the  Law, 
which  was  lost  a  long  time,  but  was  found  in  the  temple  in 
the  time  of  Josiah. 


CHAPTER  XI. 

A  Connecticut  Clergyman's  Family— Wood-hauling— Middletown. 

In  my  journey  up  the  river  I  deviated  from  my  course  to 
visit  one  of  the  favourite  scenes  of  my  childhood.  It  was 
one  of  the  river  towns,  so  like  the  others  in  its  general  traits, 
that  to  describe  it  is  in  some  sense  to  describe  all  which 
retain  their  ancient  agricultural  character.  I  spent  parts  of 
two  years  there  while  a  boy,  in  the  family  of  the  old  clergy- 
man of  the  place ;  and  thus  became  instructed  in  the  state 
of  society,  as  an  apprfjitice  learns  his  master's  trade,  viz. 
by  assisting  to  carry  it  on.  The  good  old  man,  who  had 
lived  many  years  on  a  glebe  of  four  acres  and  four  hundred 
dollars  a  year,  was  considered  by  his  neighbours  entitled  by 
his  character  to  the  liberal  pay  of  one  dollar  a  week  for 
boarding,  lodging,  and  instructing  a  boy  like  me ;  and  in  the 
plain  hospitality  which  I  received  at  their  firesides,  I  read  at 
once  their  love  for  him,  and  their  respect  for  the  learning 
which  I  was  supposed  to  be  seeking.  Some  of  these  men, 
while  they  worked  the  farms  of  their  ancestors,  occupied 
dwellings  which  had  sheUered  several  generations ;  or  at 
least  reposed  under  aged  elms  where  their  grandfathers  had 
pursued  their  boyish  sports.  I  soon  began  to  share  the 
feelings  of  the  family,  where  every  wandering  stranger  was 
sure  of  finding  friends ;  and  through  the  frequent  calls  of 
connexions  and  brother-clergymen,  as  well  as  by  visits  in 


r 


the 

mer 

Ii 

an  i 

pro\ 

cam 

ledg 

oft! 

exal 

exhi 

on  n 

gentl 

tool 

gene 

wane 

comp 

of  th 

winte 

opini( 

since 

footec 

wayw 

thelo 

little  ( 

duties 

fused 

me  at 

noim{ 

useful] 

spent  i 

my  gr< 

tell  tal 

Indian! 

The 

days  w 

structic 

yet  an 

church, 

clergyn 


JiOt. 

B  Revolutionary  War, 
ig  for  them,  and  want- 
believea  limes  were 
the  fashion  to  search 
the  Book  of  the  Law, 
found  in  the  temple  in 


>d-hauling — Middletown. 

ted  from  my  course  to 
ny  childhood.  It  was 
era  in  its  general  traits, 
5  to  describe  all  which 
icter.  I  spent  parts  of 
mily  of  the  old  clergy- 
mstructed  in  the  state 
lis  master's  trade,  viz. 
ood  old  man,  who  had 
acres  and  four  hundred 
neighbours  entitled  by 
me  dollar  a  week  for 
>oy  like  me ;  and  in  the 
their  firesides,  I  read  at 
espect  for  the  learning 
Some  of  these  men, 
eir  ancestors,  occupied 
ral  generations ;  or  at 
I  their  grandfathers  had 
»n  began  to  share  the 
wandering  stranger  was 
I  the  frequent  calls  of 
18  well  as  by  visits  in 


AN  OLD  clergyman's  FAMILY.  gp 

the  neighbourhood  and  tho  parish,  I  became  acquainted  with 
men,  congregations,  an.l  things  fnr  and  near. 

U  n  be  useful  to  a  minti  to  rontemplate  the  operations  of 
an  important  and  vah.ablo  machine,  must  it  no7be     n   m 

cannot  tell  exactly  how  much  I  was  the  better  for  the  know 

if  the  h  'T'"^  '!""  "'  ''"^  P'^^'y  «'■  ^^'--.  0    the  pS 
of  the  heathen  gods;  hut  I  am  sure  that  the  excellent  "nd 

on  my  lite,  and  ought  to  liave  had  much  more  The  ol.l 
gent  man,  besides  his  pastoral  ,l„,ies,  was  chiT  eou    clbr 

tenlTofJr'  "'  ""T  ''  ''"''  '^"'^  cliflieulty.  ;"on- 
general  of  learnmg,  and  one  with  whom  those  minds  wiiieh 
wandered  farthest  beyond  the  village  sphere  were  fond  of 

on^7JrfT  ^y ""''' ^'^'h^" «-' -he's °:l;' 

Of  the  famUies  of  New-England  draw  their  circles  in  ih« 
wmter  evenings,  I  have  heard  prine  pies  avowed  .n,l 
opmtons  familiarly  expressed,   con?r„rg"whrf  have 

ZTJr  '•!!  "'"""'  "*■  f^"^"P«  ^'  -^'•-  The  venr  bare- 
footed boy  who  spent  a  week  in  the  house,  while  hU  poor 
wayworn  mother  was  accommodated  in  the  .linte  room'fo 
he  love  of  h.m  whose  heart-broken  disciple  she  warpoor 
httle  George  went  off  engrafted  with  views  of  the  rights  ami 
duties  of  man.  whieh  certain  European  sovereign sfa^  r" 

me  1  "„,!'''"  '^'"'"i  '-'"'  "^  '^'  «^«^^-  He^encourage^ 
me  at  my  evenmg  lesson  by  reminding  me  that  there  was 
no  .mpechment  between  any  boy  and  the  highe     station  of 

sp  nt  ?nlell'''  ''""'7'  '"'  ^^^"  '''  '^'^'^^ ^-th  an  hour 
spent  m  shelhng  corn,  he  would  sometimes  talk  af  one  of 

my  grandfathers  who  had  loved  his  books  in  his  youth'  or 
Indians.'  ™««'«"«>-y  adventures  among  the  Delaware 

dav?vve';?r"'  f  ""^'"'"^  '"  f'^"'^''"'""  '■°'  '^'^  ^'''^  i"  P=^s« 
struct  0^0?,  '"'•  ''  ''  r^^  ^"°^^"'  *«  '^'  Fi--"^  i"- 
vet  u    eli  f  ^  ^'■^^l!-'?'  r''  """'  •''■  "'°«^  seminaries  J,ad 

church  an  '"''  '',  '  ^""\  ''"''  '^''''  ''  '^^h  for  the 
cnurcli,  and  are  domg  much  more.  Our  New-Eneland 
clergymen  carefully  transmitted  their  learning  from  geS 


00 


A  CONNECTICUT  VILLAGE. 


tion  to  generation,  under  the  disadvantages  to  which  they 
were  subjected,  by  their  private  instructions  to  young  men 
preparing  for  their  profession ;  and  although  their  time  was 
much  engrossed  with  parochial  labours,  the  students  were 
not  as  much  as  now  withdrawn  from  the  world,  but  more 
trained  to  the  practice  of  a  science  in  which  theoretical 
learning  alone  is  of  little  direct  avail  in  society.     For  my 
own  part,  I  felt  that  the  Christian  religion  was  of  real 
value,  when  I,  though  a  child,  accompanied  the  venerable 
pastor  in  some  of  his  visits  to  the  people  of  his  charge. 
Two  of  these  occasions  have  often  since  presented  them- 
selves to  my  memory  in  a  powerful  contrast.     One  of  these 
was  the  funeral  of  a  young  man,  who  had  suddenly  died  on 
the  eve  of  marriage.     The  mother  stood  among  the  mourn- 
ful throng,  with  a  heavenly  calmness  upon  her  face,  and 
seemed  to  drink  in  the  consolations  of  the  Scriptures  offered 
by  my  aged  companion,  like  one  thirsty  for  the  water  of 
life.     In  the  other  case,  I  found  a  half-heathen  family  at 
their  miserable  meal,  on  the  outskirts  of  the  parish,  with 
poverty  and  ignorance  written  on  every  countenance,  no 
Bible  in  the  house,  and  apparently  unacquainted  with  the 
bearing  of  its  doctrines  on  that  spirit  which  had  recently  in- 
habited the  lifeless  body  now  ready  for  the  grave  in  one 
comer  of  the  room.   Never  before  nor  smce  have  I  witnessed 
equal  degradation  in  a  family  in  that  part  of  our  country; 
and  the  old  pastor  seemed  as  much  astonished  as  myself, 
for  they  had  kept  aloof  from  all  the  blessings  of  civilization 
around  them,  and  been  as  much  unknown  as  unknowing. 
From  what  I  heard  of  the  conversation  which  took  place,  I 
received  the  impression  that  they  had  come  some  months 
before  from  another  state,  where  few  then  enjoyed  the  bene- 
fits of  intellectual  or  religious  instruction ;  and  although  I 
spoke  not  a  word  on  the  subject,  and  probably  my  reflec- 
tions were  not  conjectured  even  by  my  companion,  with  all 
his  fondness  for  youth,  and  his  penetration,  I  believe  I  left 
the  house  a  decided,  though  a  young  champion  for  knowledge 
and  refinement. 

Wood-hauling  is  a  word  which  requires  explanation  to 
such  as  have  not  been  intimately  acquainted  with  the  country 


pco] 

over 

they 

saw 

movi 

thus 

patte 

The 

apph 

warn 

warn 

were 

as  1 1 

and  t: 

naan. 

talk  i 

made 

their 

pover 

withoi 

manm 

invital 

haulin 

word. 

Thi 

tow  si 

tables 

appeal 


XAOE. 

antages  to  which  they 
(ructions  to  young  men 
ilthough  their  time  was 
urs,  the  students  were 
jm  the  world,  but  more 
e  in  which  theoretical 
ail  in  society.  For  my 
1  religion  was  of  real 
)mpanied  the  venerable 

people  of  !iis  charge. 
I  since  presented  them* 
contrast.  One  of  these 
10  had  suddenly  died  on 
stood  among  the  mourn- 
3SS  upon  her  face,  and 
of  the  Scriptures  offered 
hirsty  for  the  water  of 
I  half-heathen  family  at 
irts  of  the  parish,  with 

every  countenance,  no 

unacquainted  with  the 
t  which  had  recently  in- 
y  for  the  grave  in  one 
)r  since  have  I  witnessed 
[lat  part  of  our  country; 
ch  astonished  as  myself, 

blessings  of  civilization 
mknown  as  unknowing, 
tion  which  took  place,  I 
had  come  some  months 
V  then  enjoyed  the  bene- 
ruction ;  and  although  I 
and  probably  my  reflec- 

my  companion,  with  all 
netration,  I  believe  I  left 

champion  for  knowledge 

requires  explanation  to 
[uainted  with  the  coimtry 


r 


A  WOOD-HAIJLINO. 


91 


Villages  in  New-Engiand.     It  is  the  name  of  an  annual 
wood  to^'tht^n  'r  P"'1'"""^  ™"'^  ^^^'^  contributions  0 

irdirrhL^h:;;:"'^ '''"'''  ^''^^'^'^'"^"^  -  ^  -«- 

a  h^hllir'' r'  *  ^';^  '"'"*  '"y  ^^"'''»"«  •""^"'•t*'r  to  many 
a  hHbuat.on  far  and  near,  to  give  invitations  for  this  muster 

even  tllTT  '  '  '""'  ^^r"  "^"'"''  '""""^  '»>«  farme™  and 
even  the    awyers'  and  physicians'  households,  and  thought 
I  grew  rich  ,n  fnends  faster  than  ever  before      M.  LevS 
«eur,  w Inle  .a  General  Lafayette's  train,  had  no  mo^;  reason 
to  be  pleased  with  the  Americans,  than  I  hadToTo  e  Z 
peop  e  of  the  parish  during  this  tour  of  visitation.     All  the 
overi  ow,ngs  of  their  aflection  towards  the  good  old  man 
they  bestowed  upon  me;  an.l  many  a  respecTful  courteTv? 
saw  made  by  dignified  frames  which  I  had^seen  before  ol 
movmg  to  the  house  of  God.  and  which  I  had  supposed  tot 
thus  perpendicular  the  year  round.     The  farmers'  w^veS 
Kir.'''''';:  ""'^  '"'"^'"^  ''°^'  «'"»ed  i«  mylce 

app  ef  whirt'  """^  ,"r '^''"'  '^"'^  ''•^  ''^y^  chestnuts  and 
apples,  while  the  old  dog  or  cat  was  driven  out  of  the 

warm  chimney-corner,  and  I  was  placed  on  a  block  to 
warm  my  little  toes  and  fingers.     I  had  not  supposed  there 
were  as  many  dried  pumpkins  and  sausages  iSthewo'S 
as  I  saw  hanging  from  the  kitchen-walls;  and  asforTow- 
and  beehives,  milk  and  honey,  I  thought  ;f  the  Lnd  of  c" 
naan.     To  hear  such  cheerful,  laborious,  intelligent  neoDle 
talk  about  the  joys  of  religion  and  the  p;ospectf  of  heajS 
made  me  love  to  sit  on  their  settle-benches  and  walkon 
theu-  sanded  floors.     Families  in  affliction,  and  Those  t 
poverty  were  visited,  encouraged,  or  prayed  with,  and  left 
without  a  hint  at  any  inappropriate  sublet ;  but  where  good 
manners  and  good  memory  were  not  found  together^  Jn 
mvitation  was  e  sewhere  given  by  the  pastor  to  fhe  w;od" 
hauling  next  Thursday,  and  every  fac'e  brightened  aTthe 

Thursday  came  at  the  parsonage,  and  I  helped  to  twist 

ow  strings  to  roast  the  beef  and  spareribs,  whUe  al  Z 

tables  were  set  m  rows  ;  loaves  of  bread  were  cut  so  as  to 

appear  yet  whole,  the  great  gate,  like  those  fiUe  pel- 


*  i> 


r 


99 


A  CONNECTICUT  VILLAGE. 


pie  wlioso  similitude  it  is,  iifier  h:iviiic[  been  for  a  time 
close  ttlnit,  Wiis  w\viiii|lj  widi;  open ;  luid  tl.f  fiirincis  and 
I'liiiucrs'  l)()ys  hiiriied  oil"  to  the  woods  with  their  horac 
sleds.  IJy-and-hy  they  [ie>;iiii  to  come  in,  rivulliii^r  each 
othtr  ill  the  size  of  their  loiids,  the  striii<;htiieMS  and  (luality 
of  tlifir  wood,  their  expedition  in  ciiliinf;  it,  their  dexterity  in 
driving  up  and  imloading  it.  SSleiirlis  eame  in  with  bags  of 
wheal  iiiul  rye  or  Indian  meal,  wliich  the  miller  had  to 
grind  and  toll  for  lis  throiiffh  the  winter;  and  butler,  eggs, 
cheese,  bacon,  heads  of  fine  llax  and  hanks  of  yarn  were 
handed  in  and  dcp(»sited  in  ecUiirs  and  cupboards,  with  ad- 
miration at  the  generosity  of  friends  far  and  near.  Twenty 
men,  old  and  respectable  enough  for  deacons,  were  soon 
assembled ;  while  there  were  others  in  the  prime  of  life, 
enough  to  have  made  one  of  Colonel  Warner's  companies 
at  the  battle  of  Bennington.  Ah  !  how  many  of  those  iron- 
bound  frames  have  ere  this  been  shattered  by  death,  as  the 
linesl  trecti  of  the  forest  were  thai  day  levelled  and  riven  by 
their  hands ! 

Long  Tom  Hewitt  came  headlong  down  Hewitt's  Hill, 
with  his  horsea'  tails  swe('j)ing  the  snow,  and  pulling  the 
handsomest  load  of  white  ash  that  was  hauled  that  winter. 
There  he  had  lived,  driving  such  horses,  iind  burning  such 
wood,  like  his  fathers  before  him,  with  little  notice  from  the 
world :  one  of  the  shoots  from  a  stump  of  an  old  family  which 
dated  far  back  towards  the  iirsl  settlement  of  the  township. 
He  looked  as  wild  as  any  of  the  Indians  his  ancestors  were 
reported  to  have  out-ambushed  and  outrun  ;  but  there  was 
nothing  else  savage  or  iujtive  about  him.  The  uplands  pro- 
duced more  grass  than  the  cattle  or  sheep  could  eat,  and 
they  multiplied  and  fattened  even  faster  than  the  Hewitts 
who  fed  and  slaughtered  them ;  and  this  was  the  simple 
secret  of  their  being  all  men  "  to  do  in  the  world."  He  had 
more  respectability  than  his  apatliy  deserved,  and  more  in- 
fluence than  he  ever  exercised.  His  children  were  born  to 
ignorance  and  plenty  of  bread  and  milk.  They  went  to 
pasture  in  the  summer,  and  ate  hasty-pudding  and  great 
sweet  apples  all  winter.  They  never  ran  away  and  never 
died.     Their  feet  were  too  heavy  for  the  former,  and  the 


the 

wa 

the 

bee 

blo( 

thcr 

I  ail 

reat 

tion. 

and 

theii 

that 

so  ol 

map 

boasi 

datio 

next 

time. 

Cli 

the  pi 

fill  In 

paintc 

week 

ward 

was  a! 

his  no 

ride,  \ 

broker 

soon  ri 

was  sli 

tire  at 

came  i 

whip  n 

which  ' 

of  the  1 

The 

two  lim 

dextero 


LLAOr. 

liiviiic;  been  for  a  time 
;  ;u)(l  tl.f  funnels  anil 
iVDods  witii  tlieir  liorac 
roiiie  ill,  riviilliii^r  each 
straiffhtiiess  ami  (juality 
liiiiff  it,  tlieir  dexterity  in 
lis  eaiiie  in  with  bags  of 
/liieh  the  miller  hud  to 
inter  ;  and  butter,  eggs, 
[\nd  iianks  of  yarn  were 
ami  cupboards,  with  ad- 
far  and  near.  Twenty 
for  deacons,  wore  soon 
rs  in  the  prime  of  life, 
nel  Warner's  companies 
how  many  of  those  iron- 
attered  by  death,  as  the 
ay  levelled  and  riven  by 

ing  down  Hewitt's  Hill, 
le  snow,  and  pulling  the 
was  hauled  that  winter. 
lorses,  find  burning  such 
fith  little  notice  from  the 
lip  of  an  old  family  which 
tlemcnt  of  the  township, 
dians  his  ancestors  were 

outrun  ;  but  there  was 
,  him.    The  uplands  pro- 

or  sheep  could  eat,  and 
faster  than  the  Hewitts 
ind  this  was  the  simple 
D  in  the  world."  He  had 
^  deserved,  and  more  in- 
[is  children  were  born  to 
id  milk.  They  went  to 
hasty-pudding  and  great 
;ver  ran  away  and  never 

for  the  former,  and  the 


A  WESIERN  8BTT1,ER. 


03 


•Jir  Was  too  pure  for  the  l-iMnr      ii„  wr 

the  ii.gi.es,  ^ound  in  ilr;:;,."  j'::^^:;^':,;;^  ^^ 

was  nothiu.  above  M,c,„  wo.tl.  ^ras.L.^  t  "''  'Y''' 

the  reproach  of  ignorance  fton?  Xnt) '  'i^  "'"y ''"^'' 
because,  as  the  expression  w,!    w        1  generation, 

I'lood  e.iougli:  wa  „  ^  uc .  i^V  ,\';'w"r '^  T  °' P"°' 
•hem,  which  is  next  t(  wSvi  I  n'hr'"'""^  '""^''^ 
1  -n  not  using  language  h^ ^ll'  ^^•^^.^^  ^^l;-;'-- 
rea^img  .vr.t.ng,  and  ciphering  are  not  lie     cal Lj  edue^: 

S;he^;:rt;rCd^;t:;r^^^^^ 

«o  often' enlivened  ^^^^rt^^ 

dation.     When  theiefore  Tom  h  . d     n       .    .  u  '*""■  ^^^'""^ 

f.i    long  under-jaw;  but  they  in  fact  distiniruishPrnhl 
panned  dash-board  of  his  pung,  which  S  b'eentokt  tlie" 
week  before  by  h.s  wild  son  Josh  in  a  high  gale, Tnd  after 
ward  me.uled  by  him  in  a  low  one.     The^^ld  horse  wW^^^ 
was  as  calm  as  a  wooden  clock,  with  the  old  man  o  baTa„e« 
his  notions,  had  been  a  wild  fury  on  the  nighHJthe  sleTr 
ride  when  she  set  off  in  the  moonlight  hke  a  w^h  whf  « 
broken  hair-spnng,  at  a  rate  never  designed  for  him  a„d 
soon  ..an  out  his  career.     AVhat  Charley  had  in  his  pung  Je 
was  s  ow  m  exhibiting,  so  that  the  spectators  had  C  to 
tire  at  the.r  posts,  when  old  Captain  John,  a  retired  saUor 
came  up,  heralded  by  his  own  stentorian  voice.    hTs  kiotty 
whip  made  many  short  fashionable  calls  on  his  blind  hor  / 
n^H.h  was  proof  against  such  attacks,  as  much  as  he  seSS 
of  the  Hewitts  against  the  wit  of  the  master. 

I  he  out-door  ceremonies  were  almost  completed,  when 

dexterously  oft  the  sleds  to  the  right  and  left,  almost  tho 

Q 


04 


MIDDLKTOWN. 


whole  len<rth  of  the  yard.  The  phico  of  honour,  tliat  is  the 
vacant  spot  at  the  end  of  ihis  avenue,  alone  remained  to  be 
occupied,  liavinn  been,  with  «)ne  coiij^ent,  h'ft  for  iJill  I'elers, 
the  moMt  athletic  man  in  the  town.  He  soon  eanie  from  the 
farthest  wood-lot,  and  with  the  hirijest  load,  and  with  a 
rapidity  and  skill  which  excited  general  admiration,  emptied 
hii  sled  in  the  very  spot  designed,  without  any  apparent 
exertion  ;  and  in  a  moment  more,  had  disimscd  of  his  team, 
■tamped  the  snow  from  his  itools,  and  had  taken  his  scat 
amid  the  whole  party  at  the  table,  where  a  scene  of  honest 
hilarity  occurred  wliicli  I  shall  not  attempt  to  describe. 

Keturning  to  Middletowii— the  approach  to  that  eily  is 
beautiful  from  almost  every  (piarlcr.  The  river  spreads  out 
in  the  form  of  a  lake,  and  has  the  aspect,  from  several 
points,  of  being  entirely  enclosed  by  the  green  and  culti- 
vated  hills  around  it. 

In  Middlefown  are  several  neat  and  even  elegant  private 
houses.     The  view  comnumded  by  the  eminence  on  which 
the  Wesleyan  College  stands,  though  inferior  in  extent  to 
that  from  a  hill  in  the  rear,  is  varied  and  rich  in  an  extreme. 
Tlio  tine  bend  of  the  river  just  below,  with  all  that  art  and 
nature  have  done  for  its  banks,  here  presents  itself  with 
great  ell'ect.     Various   manufactures  are  carried  on  with 
Buccess,  as  the  small  tributaries  of  the  Connecticut  furnish 
much  water-power,  but  no  associations  exist  for  the  literary 
improvement  of  the  people,  with  the  exception  of  a  small 
social  library,  founded   before   the   Revolution.     This   is 
owing,    in    a    great    measure,   to   the    emigration   of   a 
large  proportion  of  the  young  men  to  commercial  cities. 
The  people  of  this  place  have  had  their  full  share  in  form- 
ing new  settlements  at  dilFerent  periods,  some  near  and 
some  far  distant.     Mr.  White,  the  first  settler  of  that  pr\rt  of 
the  State  of  New-York  long  known  by  the  general  name  of 
Whitcstown,  and  now  embracing  several  counties,  went  from 
ihis  place  in  17—,  with  his  axe  only,  and  began  with  his 
own  unassisted  strength  to  clear  a  forest,  which  has  now 
given  room  to  a  hundred  thousand  inhabitants.     Human 
ingenuity  and  enterprise  will  be  exerted  where  and  when- 
ever sufficient  encouragement  is  offered.     While  «any 


»co  of  honour,  tliat  is  the 
If,  iiloiK'  reniiiinoil  to  be 
■^ent,  lul't  for  iJill  IVlers, 
He  soon  came  from  the 
irijcst  load,  ami  with  a 
leral  admiration,  emptied 
il,  without  any  apparent 
lad  disimscd  of  his  team, 
,  and  liad  taken  ills  seat 
where  a  seene  of  iionest 
attempt  to  describe, 
approach  to  tliat  city  is 
r.    Tiie  river  spreads  out 
he  aspect,  from  several 
by  the  green  and  culti- 

and  even  clei^ant  private 
y  tlie  eminence  on  which 
igh  infiTior  in  extent  to 
:d  and  ricli  in  an  extreme, 
dow,  with  all  that  art  and 
here  presents  itself  with 
res   are  carried  on  with 
f  the  Connecticut  furnish 
tions  exist  for  the  literary 
the  exception  of  a  small 
he   Revolution.     This   is 
to   the    emi$<ration   of   a 
ten  to  commercial  cities, 
d  their  full  share  in  form- 
periods,  some  near  and 
!  first  settler  of  that  part  of 
vn  by  the  general  name  of 
leveral  counties,  went  from 
only,  and  began  with  his 
a  forest,  which  has  now 
and  inhabitants.     Human 
exerted  where  and  when- 
3  offered.     While  «any 


m 


,%. 


%. 


^^^  €> 


.0^  ^^t:^ 


IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-3) 


4> 


<p 


y.5. 


1.0 


I.I 


If  lis  IIM 

12.0 


1^ 


1.8 


1.25      1.4 

1.6 

41 6"      — 

► 

Photographic 

Sciences 
Corporation 


,\ 


S 


<i\^ 


■^ 


\ 


\ 


33  WEST  MAIN  STREET 

WEBSTER,  N.Y.  14S80 

(716)  872-4503 


^<b 


.V 


4^ 


<^ 


o^ 


<> 


^^v. 


4i^ 


Ix 


CIHM/ICMH 

Microfiche 

Series. 


CIHM/ICMH 
Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for  Historical  IVIicroreproductions  /  Institut  canadien  de  microreproductions  historiques 


ha 
hi 
mi 
be 
qu 

be 
oil 
Le 

th( 
in 
pn 
blc 
pn 
cal 
no 
a  I 
fro 
w:i 
aft 
the 
me 
wh 
^vh 

SOI 

am 

SOI 

am 

in 

tio 

SC( 

ye 
toe 
mi 
on 


GERMAN  SETTLERS. 


8a 


have  felt  tlie  impulse  which  drove  tiiem  to  a  new  country 
far  awiiy,  some  liave  been  attracted  by  the  facilities  for 
manufacturinir  allbrdcd  by  the  streams,  and  others  have 
been  persevcrnijr  in  diggin<r  freestone  from  the  valuable 
quarries  on  the  opposite  bank  of  the  Connecticut. 

Arnonir  the  spots  of  local  interest  may  be  mentioned  three 
beautiful  little  cascades,  all  within  about  (bur  miles  of  the  city, 
one  of  them  in  Chatliani,  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  river. 
Laurel  Grove  lies  on  the  way  to  anotlier,  and  shades  one  of 
the  most  beautiful  windinjr  wood-land  roads  inNew-Enfrland; 
in  the  sprina;  enriched  for  a  mile  or  more  with  the  utmost 
profusion  of  those  shrubs  from  which  it  has  its  name,  in  full 
bloom.  The  stream  which  forms  the  Chatham  cascade 
proceeds  from  a  pond  at  the  elevated  base  of  a  rude  blutf 
called  Rattlesnake  Hill,  in  which  is  a  cobalt  mine.  It  haa 
not  proceeded  above  two  hundred  yards  when  it  leaps  from 
a  rock,  and  falls  into  a  wild  little  basin  :  a  delightful  retreat 
from  the  heat  of  the  sun.  The  pond  is  one  of  the  head- 
waters of  Salmon  Kiver,  or  the  Moodus.  That  stream, 
after  rushing  throuffh  many  romantic  valleys,  empties  into 
the  Coiinccticut,  behind  a  point  formed  by  a  sweet  little 
meadow  which  I  had  seen  before.  The  country  through 
which  it  passes  was  the  residence  of  the  Moodus  Indians, 
who  had  the  reputation  among  other  tribes  of  being 
sorcerers ;  and  some  traditions  of  them  are  still  found 
among  the  whhe  people,  to  which  Brainerd's  poetry  refers. 

A  small  cluster  of  houses  on  the  road  near  the  pond  have 
something  a  little  foreign  in  their  appearance  ;  and  the  names 
and  the  dialect  of  some  of  their  inhabitants  excite  surprise 
in  the  stranger,  who  knows  how  homogeneous  the  popula- 
tion of  New-England  towns  always  is.  They  are  the  de- 
scendants of  several  Gcrmnn  families,  brought  here  some 
years  ago  to  work  the  cobalt  mine,  M'hich  was  soon  found 
too  unproductive  to  pay  the  expenses.  There  are  other 
minerals  in  the  neighbourhood,  particularly  in  a  lead  mine 
on  the  river's  bank. 

I  think  there  can  he  found  no  pleasanter  route  for  a  trav- 
eller during  a  sununcv  tour  than  aion<r-fhc  river  towns  from 


I 


I 
I 


i 


96 


AN'ENUES    OF    EtMS. 


chiefly  on  the  line  levels  which  generally  border  this  kmfr 
of  New-England  streams,  and  the  villages  are  all  situated 
upon  them,   with  the  exception    of  Sullleld   and   Lnheld. 
The  occasional  interposition  of  a  hill  or  two,  and  the  cross- 
im  of  a  few  ravines,  aflbrd  only  an  agreeable  variety  to  the 
iourney.     The  intelligence  and  good  liabits  of  the  people, 
the    flourishing    condition   of  the    arts,  the    abundance  o 
Uie   comforts   of  life,  and  the  homogeneous  society,  stdl 
almost  everywhere  preserved,  present  at  every  step  objects 
of  interest  Jo  the  observing  traveller.     Here  also  are  seen 
the  birth-places  of  many  of  those  who  have  emignited  to 
other  parts  of  the  Union,  assisted  in  clearing  the  Western 
forests,  and  in  pressing  on  civilization  far  towards  the  inte- 
rior of  the   continent.     Here  we  see  schools  where  men 
have  received  the  first  rudiments  of  the  learnmg  they  have 
afterward  displayed  on  tlic  benches  and  in  the  legislatures 
of  states,  which,  when  they  were  building,  were  without  a 
name,  or  perhaps  an  inhabitant. 

The  limits  which  I  have  mentioned  include  the  sites  ot 
the  first  settlements  on  the  river,  excepting  only  the  military 
one  at  Saybrook.     The  convenience  of  travelling  is  greatly 
increased  by  the  fine  rows  of  trees,  which,  with  some  mter- 
luptions  indeed,  line  the  roads  the  whole  distance.     I  have 
not  been  able  to  ascertain  whence  arose  the  ancient  practice 
of  thus  decorating  the  streets  and  high-roads  ;  but  from  my 
earliest  recollection,  the  fine  elms,  spreading  their  noble 
branches  over  my  head,  excited  my  admiration.     Many  of 
them  are  of  great  age;  indeed,  trunks  are  standing,  and 
others  have  been  recently  removed,  which  seem  to  claim  a 
date  coeval  with,  or  anterior  to,  the  clearing  of  the  forests. 
In  many  places,  particularly  in  some  of  the  villages,  the 
finest  trees,  of  extraordinary  growth,  form  two,  three,  or 
four  lines,  and  overshadow  the  broad  path,  while  their  trunks 
are  at  the  same  time  so  naked  as  not  to  shut  out  the  view 
around.      The  sight   of  a  fine  tree  is   i>npressive ;  but  a 
journey  of  seventy  or   riolHy  miles  tbroush  such  a  grovo 
fosters  feelii-gs  of  a.  delightful  and  exalting  nature. 


ELMS. 

genprally  border  this  kinpr 

IP  villages  are  all  situated 

of  Sulllokl   and   Enfield. 

I  hill  or  two,  and  tlic  cross- 

an  agreeable  variety  to  the 
good  habits  of  the  people, 
10  arts,  the  abundance  of 
homogeneous  soeicty,  still 
resent  at  every  step  olijects 
vellcr.  Hfrc  also  are  seen 
ise  who  have  emigrated  to 
id  in  clearing  the  Western 
ization  far  towards  the  inte- 
I'e  see  schools  where  men 
s  of  the  learning  they  have 
iches  and  in  the  legislatures 
re  building,  were  without  a 

ntioned  include  the  sites  of 
r,  excepting  only  the  military 
lience  of  travelling  is  greatly 
•ees,  which,  with  some  inter- 
the  whole  distance.     I  have 
ice  arose  the  ancient  practice 
nd  high-roads  ;  but  from  my 
elms,  spreading  their  noble 
id  my  admiration.     Many  of 
id,  trunks  are  standing,  and 
oved,  which  seem  to  claim  a 
o,  the  clearing  of  the  forests. 
n  some  of  the  villages,  the 
growth,  form  two,  tlireo,  or 
broad  path,  while  their  trunks 
as  not  to  shut  out  the  view 
e  tree  is   impressive ;  but  a 
uiilcs  thnmah  such  a  grovo 
and  exalting  nature. 


I 


Hartford. 


97 


CHAPTER  XII. 

HartforJ-CIijrtpr  Hill,  the  Seat  of  tl.c  Willis  Family-Public 
Institutions-Society— Antiquities. 

Hartford  may  be  taken  as  a  specimen  of  the  whole 
country:  on  every  side  arc  seen  marks  of  a  former  more 
quiescent  state  of  things,  while  a  hurrying,  populous,  and 

Cr™"!  7""f  r'"u'^  ^''  '"'''  '''  in.  is  rapidly  flow, 
ing  on.     A  lew  of  the  habitations  of  old  times  remain,  with 
many  of  the  sound  sentiments  and  excellent  habits  of  former 
(Jays;  but  as  the  former  have  been  generally  improved  by 
modern  hands,  o.  at  least  furnished  with  comforts  formerly 
unknown,  without  losing  their  pristine  character  or  their 
venerable  aspect,  so  M-here  the  good  sense,  intelligence,  and 
religion  of  former  days  are  fo.m.i,  they  appear  to  have  been 
rendered  at  once  more  valuable  among  their  contrasts,  and 
more  extensively  useful  through   the   new  channels  now 
opened  for  then  exercise.     Every  thing  indicates  the  great 
revo  ut.on  which  has  taken  place  within  a  few  years  in  the 
employments  of  the  active  people  of  New-England,  where 
so  many  hands  are  now  engaged  in  manufactures,  and  the 
agency  which  has  converted  the  nation   into   a  race  of 
nomades  during  a  large  part  of  the  year.     The  strokes  of 
hammers  and  the  rolling  of  wheels  are  frequemly  heard, 
and  many  steamboats  and  stage-coaches  are  daily  arriving 
and  departing.  ° 

After  visiting  the  public  institutions,  in  which  Hartford 
has  become  very  rich,  and  enjoying  more  of  the  society  than 
1  have  leisure  to  weigh  or  estimate,  I  paid  a  visit  to  Charter 
Hill  untu  lately  the  seat  of  the  Willises.  It  has  passed  out 
01  tno  tamily,  after  having  been  occupied  by  them  for  a 
century  and  a  half  or  more ;  and  I  am  the  more  anxious  to 
uescribe  it  because  it  may  soon  lose  such  of  its  ancient 
characteristics  as  it  yet  retains.     The  estate  lies  upon  the 


Si 

I 


1^ 


B8 


INSTITUTIONS. 


last  prominent  angle  of  an  elevated  range  of  beautiful  level 
grouni],  whieh  rises  above  the  south  meai'ows  of  Hartford, 
and  makes  a  conspicuous  appearance  from  tiie  river,  its 
banks,  and  several  parts  of  the  city,  while  it  overlooks  a 
large  part  of  Hartford,  and  the  fertile  course  of  tiie  Con- 
necticut for  some  miles.  Tlie  garden  occupies  the  level  to 
the  verge  of  the  descent,  having  the  venerable  old  mansion 
on  the  north,  and  a  renmant  of  the  orchard  on  the  cast, 
where  I  suppose  stood  in  former  times  a  block-house,  for 
defence  ntrainst  the  Indians-  At  the  foot  of  the  hill,  and 
shading  the  street,  still  stands  the  ancient  oak  in  full  vigour, 
though  tradition  says  that  it  was  left  a  full-grown  tree  when 
the  native  forest  was  levelled  around  it. 

A  smooth  and  verdant  descent,  in  some  places  too  steep 
to  be  safely  passed,  leads  from  the  elevation  towards  the 
level  of  the  extensive  meadows  below,  on  one  of  the  upper 
levels  of  which  the  Indians  once  annually  pitched  their  wig- 
wams in  the  summer-season,  and  where  now  are  seen  count- 
less fields  of  grass  and  grain,  often  divided  by  line  rows  of 
trees,  and  occasionally  bordered  with  bowers  of  native 
grape-vines.  The  ancient  oak,  which  has  furnished  so  many 
generations  of  sportive  children  with  acorn  cups  and  a  really 
sublime  object  for  their  admiration,  shows  as  yet  no  token 
of  decay,  but  bids  fair  to  flourish  yet  for  another  century. 
Tlie  charter  of  Connecticut  colony,  wliich  owes  its  pres- 
ervation to  this  faiilil'ul  trunk,  seems  to  have  imbued  it  in 
return  with  perpetual  lile ;  and  the  tree  is  regarded  with 
peculiar  veneration  for  its  connexion  with  that  important 
event  in  the  history  of  the  country. 

I  did  not  expect,  when  I  l)egan  to  speak  of  Charter  Hill, 
to  find  leisure  to  say  a  word  of  the  people  of  Hartford  or 
their  public  institutions,  several  of  which  do  great  honour  to 
their  liberality  and  intelligence.  Having  a  few  minutes, 
however,  I  will  say,  in  the  lirst  place,  that  the  American 
Asylum  for  the  Deaf  and  Dumb  is  the  first  institution  of  the 
kind  ever  founded  in  America,  and  has  not  only  encouraged 
the  establishment  of  all  others  existing  in  the  Union,  but 
has  caused  them  to  be  conducted  on  one  plan,  and  that 
probably  the  best  in  the  world.     The  IJetreat  lor  the  Insane 


{ 
e 

tl 

fc 

bi 

hi 

r< 

ai 
to 
h( 
Ai 
dl. 
m< 

ill- 

wl; 

of 

of 

of 

to] 

spc 

wh 

moi 

visi 

the 

reH( 

tion 

pou 

lay 

edifi 

in  si 

M 

amo 

amo 

man 

obse 

or  vi 

passi 

those 


IS. 


c(l  rangR  of  licnutiful  level 
until  meai'ows  of  Hartford, 
larance  from  the  river,  its 

city,  wliilo  it  overlooks  a 
fertile  course  of  the  Con- 
arden  occupies  the  level  to 
the  venerable  old  mansioii 

the  orchard  on  the  east, 
r  times  a  block-house,  for 
t  the  foot  of  the  hill,  and 
16  ancient  oak  in  full  vigour, 
;  left  a  full-grown  tree  when 
)und  it. 
X,  in  some  places  too  steep 

the  elevation  towards  the 
below,  on  one  of  the  upper 

annually  pitched  their  wig- 
1  where  now  are  seen  count- 
len  divided  by  fine  rows  of 
ed  with  bowers  of  native 
vhich  has  furnished  so  many 
with  acorn  cups  and  a  really 
lion,  shows  as  yet  no  token 
h  yet  for  another  century, 
loiiy,  which  owes  its  pres- 
cems  to  have  imbued  it  in 
.  the  tree  is  regarded  with 
nexion  with  that  important 
try. 
in  to  speak  of  Charter  Hill, 

the  people  of  Hartford  or 
of  which  do  great  honour  to 
3.  Having  a  few  minutes, 
St  place,  that  the  American 

is  the  first  institution  of  the 
nd  has  not  only  encouraged 
i  existing  in  the  Union,  but 
[;ted  on  one  plan,  and  that 

The  IJetreat  lor  the  Insane 


Hartford. 


90 


who  come  h.ther  ,o  intrust  their  a/IIic.ed  frien.ls  to  the    k  11 

-t  delicate  ^y^.lyr'i^^z.::^- ^  ::i::; 

V  s.ter  o.  feeling  to  look  upon  the  well-pro,  or, iJnedc-d,ic7 

tTo,      ♦    t        ^      "^  f  ■■'"*'""''  ^"hsorvient  to  the  restora- 
tion   ot   the   immortal  mind  to  the  exercise  nf    ,/^'' .."^^ 
powers,  aiKl  the  cure  of  those  clSe^T^^c^    ;.  ^'^^J 
ky  waste  the  nobler  part  of  man:  the  reeonstructr,,       t ,"  t 

Marks  of  unusual  refinement  and  delicaev  orn  fm,n^ 
among  the  society  of  Hartford,  such  as  "  nig  t  e  ct 
among  persons  who  have  in  some  sense  the  ove  s  It  o  .^ 
many  objects  of  charitable  interest.  The  Tad  ef  do  „n« 
observe  the  pupils  of  the  Deaf  and  Dumb  Asyl  m  3r  h  ar  o 
o   visit  the  tenants  of  the  Ketreat,  without  fee  mg    o    c^m 

those  mstuutions  have  opportunities  lor  studying  the  nature 


1" 


i) 


too 


Mils.  SIOOtRNET. 


T 


of  the  mind  which  few  others  possess;  It  is  necessary  for 
ai  intelligent  observer  to  witness  but  one  lesson  in  a  elass 
of  the  deaf  and  dumb,  to  si'e  that  the  eourse  of  instruction 
must  develop  the  faculties  of  the  pupils,  and  especially  of 
the  teacher,  in  an  extraordinary  degree.  It  was  (oretold  of 
the  Rev.  Mr.  Gallaudet  some  years  ago,  and  very  soon  after 
liis  return  from  Kurope,  at  the  eomnicneenient  of  the 
American  Asylum,  that  he  was  in  a  way  to  become  a  dis- 
tinguished benefactor  to  his  country,  by  introducing  improve- 
ments into  the  prineii)les  of  general  education.  And  how 
fully  has  experience  proved  the  foresight  of  this  remark ! 
With  a  heart  of  the  warmest  philanthropy,  and  a  niind  at 
once  judicious,  penetrating,  inventive,  and  persevering,  he 
has  ])roduced  several  books  for  the  elementary  instruction  of 
children  in  morals  and  religion,  which  have  taught  many  a 
parent  to  do  what  has  been  for  ages  considered  impossible, 
and  encouraged  them  to  undertake  more,  while  it  has  pro- 
cured for  many  a  child  advantages  often  denied  to  persons 
of  mature  age. 

There  is  to  be  found  in  Hartford  a  considerable  amount 
of  literary  and  scientilic  knowledge  and  taste.  Heside  those 
residents  of  both  sexes  who  have  devoted  time  to  reading, 
the  collection  of  specimens,  the  rearing  of  plants,  &c. 
Washington  College,  which  was  established  a  few  years 
since,  in  a  commanding  situation  in  the  immediate  environs, 
has  exercised  some  i'avoural)Ie  influence  in  this  respect. 
Several  schools  for  young  ladies,  at  dillerent  periods,  have 
also  had  their  share  in  raising  and  supporting  the  intellectual 
character  of  the  city.  Among  them  was  one  taught  a  few 
years  since  by  Miss  Huntley,  now  Mrs.  l/ydia  H.  Si- 
gourney,  who  has  distinguished  herself  as  one  of  the  best 
female  writers  of  our  country,  in  poetry  and  prose,  and  who 
has  done  more  with  her  pen  than  almost  any  other  of  her 
sex  in  the  United  States,  to  elevate  public  sentiment,  and 
to  show  the  holy  union  which  exists  between  religion 
and  pure,  exalted  literary  taste.  During  a  few  years  in 
which  she  was  devoted  to  the  instruction  of  young  ladies  in 
this  city,  she  employed  her  leisure  in  cultivating  her  own 
mind  and  heart,  and  in  contributing  to  the  enjoyments  of  a 


s 

V 

]( 

si 

SI 

it 

Pi 
of 

h 

tic 

be 

int 

till 

in 

to 

aid 

mo 

of 

Ly 

yoi 

esti 

litei 

her 

mei 

ope: 

stati 

aloii 

kind 

ten  I 

thrc 

then 

for  t 

aniii 

ccnti 

mov( 

and  ; 

whic 


INET. 

ssess:  It  is  nccpssnry  for 
s  but  oiu'  Irsson  in  a  class 
\.  the  foursc  of  instruction 
le  pupils,  ami  esjiccially  of 
licence.  It  was  loretold  of 
irs  ago,  and  very  soon  after 
le  commencement  of  the 
n  a  way  to  become  a  dis- 
try,  by  introducing  improve- 
eral  education.  And  how 
foresight  of  this  remark! 
ilanthropy,  and  a  mind  at 
entive,  and  persevering,  he 
le  elementary  instruction  of 
which  have  taught  many  a 
ages  considered  impossible, 
ike  more,  while  it  has  pro- 
;es  often  denied  to  persons 

ford  a  considerable  amount 
ge  and  taste.  Ueside  those 
e  devoted  time  to  reading, 
le  rearing  of  plants,  &c. 
is  established  a  few  years 
in  the  immediate  environs, 
influence  in  this  respect. 
'S,  at  diilerent  periods,  have 
id  supporting  the  intellectual 
them  was  one  taught  a  few 
',  now  Mrs.  l/ydia  H.  Si- 
l  herself  as  one  of  the  best 
I  poetry  and  prose,  and  who 
m  almost  any  other  of  her 
evate  public  sentiment,  and 
h  exists  between  religion 
?.  During  a  few  years  in 
istruction  of  young  ladies  in 
iure  in  cultivating  her  own 
ting  to  the  enjoyments  of  a 


HARTFORD. 


101 


social  circle  of  which  she  was  a  member.    A  small  litrmrv 
soc.ety  ol    which   she  was   the    founder,  like  S 

i^co  L  '"''f' various  spheres  in  which  its  n.cmhen. 

siu.^  Jiave  moved.    It  was  more  rare  then  than  now  to  sZ 
such  exertions  n.a.Ie,  and  crowned  with  sue       ,        ,     Z 
•t  .H  not  easy  to  describe  how  unpron.i.smg  anpc'.red  2t 
Fojoct  o,  lornting  such  an  assocLion  ant,nf -^  "yo    , 
of  .uch  a  town,  or  how  gratifying  was  tl...  surprise  c.use 

y  us  prosporay.      Several  larger  and  more  pi  b  ,  a  2^^ 

ions  now  ex.st  m  Hartford,  the  nun.berof  n.hlbitant    h     i  .J 

beeo„,e  nearly  double,  and  the  general  interest        am'S 

ntellectual  improvement  throughout  the  lar-ror  and  ,  nt  v  of 

he  smaller  towns  in  this  part  o,'  the  couii.ry  havi  g  ,      1  sed 

m  a,   equal  ratio ;  and  to  tlicir  nicn.bers  if  will  be^M-a  i  Vnig 

aid  of  sticli  an  individual  as  Mrs.  .Sigouri.ey. 

Jhe    C.oodnd.   Association    hear  literary,  sciemific    or 
mora    lectures  every  week  through  the  winter  f  on     ome 
of  their  inembers;  while   the   debates   of  the  Ciceonean 
Lyceum  also  interest  a  large  iiui.ib.T,  priiL-ipaliv  "nh" 
youiig      A  social  library,  of  eonsiderabi/exten\    ,^,  1,  ' 
established  many  years  ago,  has  had  at,  i„(luen,-e  on  the 
luerary  character  of  the  people,  though  lately  m  ,n   tlnn 
heretofore   as  .t  is  an  i.nportant  characteristk-  o    all  t le 
means  of  knowledge  that  they  powerfully  assist  each  ;  he  's 
op  ration.     The  Sabbath-schools  are  iif  a  ,„ost  ilouri  hiJ^ 
s  ate  ;  and  wheiever  this  is  the  case,  t.ot  religion  and  rnorS 
aloije  find  benefit  in  them,  but  usef.il  knovSedge  of  everv 
kiiid  is  powerfully  promoted.     Tiiere  are  now  iio  le  L   l-J 
en  or  twelve  ..hurches  in  the  city,  all  which,  ,vit  it Vo  o^ 
hree    exceptions,   have    Sabbath-schools    coiinected    wtS 
tliem.     A  society,  consistiiig  of  all  the  teachers,  has  existed 
for  ten  years.    I  had  the  g,-a.irica,ion  of  seein/t  ,^n  o^    1  e 

central  diuuh,  after  a  public  service  for  the  occasion   and 
move  by  schools  a,id  classes,  ,inder  their  appropiiat"  e  cbo 
an<l  suponinendcnts,  ,o  a  beautir.,1  ,rove    ,f  vou  'g  n  aZ 
which  closed  over-head,  and  ibnned  a  complete  c 'n      t 


I 


101 


OLD  EPITAPHS. 


the  slropt,  to  join  thrir  voicrs  in  sarrrd  mnsir  and  listrn  (0 
an  appropriiito  address.     The  spot,  it  ha;.|)cncd,  uas  near 
that  tbrniprlv  the  annual  seene  of  a  pnhlie  diinuT  on  the 
fourth  of  .luiy ;  and  the  rellection  that  so  irratifyinc  a  chanRC 
had  taken  place  in  its  eelehration  gave  diiuldo  interest  to  the 
scene.     Tliere  were  none  of  tlie  decorations  or  ensitrns  of 
war  now  disphiyed.     And  indeed  why  shoidd  ])()\vder  and 
Bteel    have   all   the  homnir   of  that  con.piest   which  was 
clVected  primarily   hy  the  virtue   and   iimlliirencc   of  our 
fathers  ?     We  were  presented  with  a  iirocession  ot   some 
hundreds  of  chihlren,  tlic  hoys  generally  in  Idue  jackets  and 
while  pantaloons,  and  tlie  '/nU  in  white  frocks  tied  with 
blue  rii)ands,  all  witli  rlieerful  faces,  neat  and  well-l)eliavcd. 
More  iiooks  are  annually  pul)lishe(l  in  this  place  than  m 
any  other  in  New-Enirland,  only  exeeptinir   Hoston,  as   1 
believe.    The  amount  it  is  dillicuU  to  estimate.     In  addition 
to  other  machines  employed,  three  steam-iiresscs  are  now  m 
operation. 

In  the  old  buryinjr-gronnd  in  Hartford,  in  the  rear  of  the 
centre  church,  are  three  ancient  monuments,  in  good  preser- 
vation, side  hy  side,  erected  to  tlie  memory  of  three  of  the 
most  distinguished  men  amonp  the  founders  of  the  colony. 
'I'hey  were  originally  placed  over  the  graves,  in  some  spot, 
I  believe,  not  far  from  where  they  now  are.  They  are 
simple  slabs,  of  red  sandstone  or  freestone,  about  five 
inches  in  thickness,  raised  on  blocks  of  the  same,  and  for- 
tunately of  a  lasting  material,  for  after  so  long  an  exposure 
to  the  elements  they  are  almost  entire,  and  their  inscrip- 
tions are  easily  legible.  The  following  is  a  copy  of  the 
first  epitaph  on  the  northern  stone  : — 

iif:re.  lyetti.  the.  body.  of.  \e 
honovuaiji.e.  john.  haynes, 

KSQii  FIHsr.  tJOUEKNOUK.  OF 
YK  COLONY  OF  (M)NNECTIf'VTT 
IN.  NEWINCF.AM).  WHO.  DYED 
MARCH.  YE.  J.  ANNO  DOM  165'' 

■   There   are  two   other  similar  inscriptions  on  the  same 


'HS. 

saorrtl  music  and  listrn  to 
pot,  it  haji|i('iu(1,  UHS  near 
jf  a  public;  (liiiiuT  nn  tliP 

that  so  trratifyinc  a  clian^c 

gavi!  (Imililr  interest  to  the 
e  (leeoratioiis  or  ensitrns  of 
il  why  should  ])i)\viler  anil 
that  eomiiiest  whieh  was 
0  and  intelliirenec  ol'  our 
vilh  11  ])roeeiision  of  some 
I'ncrally  in  Idiie  jaekets  and 

in  white  iVoeivs  tied  with 
ees,  neat  and  weli-heliavcd. 
dished  in  this  plaee  tlian  in 
ly  exeeptiiiir  Hoston,  as  1 
ult  to  estimate.  In  addition 
cc  steani-presscs  are  now  in 

Hartford,  in  the  roar  of  the 
monuments,  in  good  preser- 
he  memory  of  liiree  of  the 
the  founders  of  llie  eolony. 
er  the  graves,  in  some  spot, 
they  now  are.  They  are 
le  or  freestone,  about  five 
locks  of  the  same,  and  for- 
or  after  so  long  an  exposure 
3st  entire,  and  their  inscrip- 
following  is  a  copy  of  the 
>ne : — 

.  BODY.  OF.  \E 
.  HAYNES, 
NOUK.  OF 
NFCTIf'VTT 

HO.  DYKD 

DOM  165  J 

ar  inscriptions  on  the  same 


HAflTFORP. 


108 


-tone:  one  to  the  Miev.  Mr.  Joseph  IFayne.,  minister  of 

Wf  ;;.;:'';''  "-•""'';:'"•  '1™'<1  on  the  twenty. 
<om  1  „    M,y^  ^vnno  Dom.  17(1!),  ;,^r,,|  ,hirty...i.rht  years-" 

7       int    '"/"""''^'^^"'"'^       ""•   '''"■'  A"""  ^>oL 
^'J. ,  in  the  sixly-seventh  year  of  lier  a.r,." 

ii.o  middle  stone  bears  the  followin.ir  h.seriplion  :- 

Jn  mf.mouv  of  the  Hev.  'J'homas  IFookfr 
io    lAKnoKi,  w.ra  a...,,  r  Um  i-kksox,,  u.ieuk  he 

I  I.ANTK..  VK  KIRST  ( 'HtRC,,  ,N   CoNNt. Mr,  T 
AN  EL0ULi:.Nr    A.U.E  AND  FAITI,,  ,1.  Mks.stkR  OF  ChKIST 

He  died  lvL\  Till  Alt:  LXl 

The  following  is  the  inscription  on  tiie  third 
stone ; — 

R 


or  southern 


An  EnTAPt,  ON  M  Samiei.  Stonk,  Deceased  ye  61 

\EAKE  OF   HIS  AOE   lvi,Y  20    Hif)3 
AeWENOLAND-S  OU.RV  &   „KR  KADIANT  CROWNE, 

Was  he  who  now  on  softest  aed  of  downe. 

J  IL  glorious  resurrection  MORNE  AIM'EARE, 

Doth  safely,  sweetly  sl,:,:,.,:  in  Jesus  here. 

In  nature  S  solid  art,  ^  KFASOMXc;  „  kll, 
J  IS  KNOWNE,  DEVO.N-D  COMPARE,  HE  I.ID  EXCELL: 
tjRRORS  CORRUPT,  BY  SINNEWOIS  DISPI  TF 
He  did  OPl'Mi.NE,  ^  CLEARLY  TIIE.M  CONFUTE- 

Ahovk  all  TinN,.s  he  Christ  h.s  Lord  prkferrd. 
Hartford,  thv  richest  jewel's  here  interd? 

These  inscriptions  arc  copied  as  closely  as  the  type  of 
ate  present  day  w. il  allow.     The  originals^  are  among  ,l"e 
most  interesting  relics  ia  our  eom.try,  and  may  to^li  an 
pearance.  yet  be  preserved  for  centuii,  even  Tn'    he  ope'i 

eopte;  fr'^'r^'^l/^"'"  ^"J"'>--     '^^-  liberal  minS'd 
people  ol  Hartford  would  honour  themselves  and  the  memory 

of  their  pious  ancestors,  by  surrounding  these  invaluabk 
monuments  with  some  sufficient  barrier. 


IM 


^imlT  TO  THE  SPRINUX. 


CHAPTl'lt  XIII. 

Narrative  of  a  Visit  to  the  Springs  in  the  lait  Century— XcwspapoM, 

A  FRiKNP  of  mine,  wlio  possosscs  a  most  accuriitc  memory, 
lias  fiirnislicd  mt'  witli  the  following  acrount  of  a  visit  siic 
made  to  tlie  Sprinsis  m  the  ynar  1701,  in  company  witii 
several  of  h«r  aiiiiuaintaiices,  male  and  ft.'male.  Tiiinking 
it  may  prove  in  some  respects  intcreiliny  to  my  readers,  to 
have  an  opiioriunily  to  compare  the  preicnt  with  the  p.ist,  I 
have  t!mui,'lit  proper  to  insert  it  nearly  in  the  words  in  which 
I  received  it. 

The  party  orii^inallv  consisted  of  five,  vi/.  three  gentle- 
men and  two  ladies,  who  travelled  with  two  jrifrs  (then  called 
chairs)  and  a  saddle-horse.  Their  first  plan  was  to  pro- 
ceed only  to  "labanon  I'ool,"  now  known  as  Lchanon 
.Springs,  and  after  a  short  visit  there  to  return :  soni"  of  their 
friends,  who  had  spent  a  little  time  there  in  preceding  years, 
having  made  a  pleasing  report  of  the  place.  The  grand- 
mother of  one  of  them,  it  was  recollected,  had  returned  from 
» the  Tool"  one  pleasant  day  before  the  {{evolution,  and  dis- 
mounted irom  her  side-saddle,  in  a  dark-coloured  joscy  and 
petticoat,  with  the  dignity  proverbial  of  those  old  times,  yet 
told  of  her  cooking  for  dinner  the  pease  picked  by  the  gentle- 
men at  that  ancient  watering-placie. 

From  Hartford  the  party  proceeded  westward  ;  and  some 
idea  may  be  formed  of  the  fashions  from  the  dress  of  one  of 
the  ladies,  who  wore  a  black  i)eaver  with  a  sugar-loaf  crown, 
eight  or  nine  inches  high,  called  a  steeple  crown,  wound 
round  with  black  and  red  cord  and  tassels,  being  loss  showy 
than  the  gold  cord  sometimes  worn.  Habits  having  gone 
out  of  fashion,  the  dress  was  of  "  London  smoke"  broad- 
cloth, buttoned  down  in  front  and  at  the  side  with  twenty- 
four  gilt  buttons,  about  the  size  of  a  half-dollar.     Long 


t 

I 

tl 

Si 

ii 

a  I 

(r 

to 

n( 

ni 

wi 

pil 

ho 

pa 

as 

the 

son 

a  I: 

day 

woi 

resi 

cee( 

join 

and 

dan( 

moti 

clot! 

stoci 

they 

inhal 

in  re 

curio 

son  \ 

but    ! 

Khod 

In 

Icrs  I 


SI'RINCiS, 


irrnsov. 


103 


I  XIII. 

the  lail  Century— Ncwspiiiiori. 

scs  u  most  accuriitc  inciiiory, 
iving  aci-ouiit  ol  ii  visit  slic 
lar  1701,  ill  rompuny  vvitli 
lule  and  finnale.  Tliinking 
intcreilinii  to  my  loacltTs,  to 
tlic  prt'X'iit  with  the  p.ist,  I 
iieiirly  in  the  words  in  which 

^(l  of  live,  vi/.  throe  genlle- 
ed  with  two  <rifrs  (tlien  called 
I'heir  first  plan  was  to  pro- 
'  now  known  as  Lelianon 
ere  to  return :  soni'*  of  their 
me  there  in  preceding  years, 
,  of  the  place.  The  grand- 
ecoUected,  had  returned  from 
ifore  the  {{evolution,  and  dis- 
in  a  dark-coloured  joscy  and 
Rrbial  of  those  old  times,  yet 
c  pease  picked  by  the  gentlo- 
m:c. 

cecded  westward  ;  and  some 
ions  from  the  dress  of  one  of 
aver  with  a  sugar-loaf  crown, 
led  a  steeple  crown,  wound 
and  tassels,  being  less  showy 
1  worn.  Habits  having  gone 
of  "  London  smoke"  broad- 
and  at  the  side  with  twenty- 
size  of  a  half-dollar.     Long 


l'.-te  h„nM,.;,„  ,  ,  i     Z'"'?;'^"    ''"""•"•nt'^'I  wi.h  largo 

«Hvcs  with  a  harrier  oV,einT./f'  '"  ''"''■"""''  "'"'"- 
infostod  the  piae       h    Thi  '         ^  ,'  ^V' """'"  '""^'•"* ^^''"■h 

from  above.    The   in  er^  ■    ''""  "'"'  '^^"  "'P*>»  "n^rn 

notbe.ravellcHriu.Li;.^,'^,  f  •    ",''  '"  "'""^  P'''''«.^  ''ould 

"ithalon^^vldte  ea^l  wl  Lr'-Mr''^'  ""  «'''  "'•••" 
ril«-rim,ge  ,o  the  Ho  y  lS  •  t"' ''''%"  P^''"«'  ""  « 
horse  on  a  saddle  3.  1      '        '  '"'  ""''^-who  rode  a 

-s,on.  of  Shaks^trolltl'"  *^  '"''^-"■•^'  ^  "^'^ 

U.0  t;LH;:r!':;si;:,:  t?:;;r -r'"'''^"^' '^- 

•"'."0  pleasant  spot  under  the  teeTuV".  T"  '"''  '" 
a  brook,  the  recollection  of  wS'  .''"  ^^^  "'^  *''''' "<" 
«l«y.  After  three  dT.thL  I  'I  t''''"'''  '^^''^"  '»  «'"' 
were  intro.lucelto  a  'rv.V '■'"^.""^'°"'  ""^'^^  »'■«/ 
r-^sided  in  the  place  Vn7.T'";j  ''■''^'  "^^  ^  '""«'"''  ^vhj 
t-oeded.  Agenfleman  whot  '"■"'  '"'"P"^^  ^''^^  P^O" 
j"i"e<!  the  party,  3in.  a  ±  '  '\'"'^"''  "^  ^»"' '"'^e 
and  although,  h'e'  dlS'no't  ec'hrtlfem  tTb''';  '•'?'^^'' 
dancing   dress,   persisted   in  .    '  ^"'^  ^^'^  only  his 

mounted  his  hor'st   lereLTT''^  "'^'"'     "« 

cloth,  with  powdered  ha!r  n    ,  T  °^  ^''"^  '"•oad- 

■stockings.     Wh  fat  Hu din    m'"  ",''^"'  ''^"'^  ^f'''"  «ilk 
thoy  would  go  direc  ,v  o  sl?  '"""^  ^''"  ^^torruined  that 

i"I'abitan.sofH.us"nCwe^^^^  •'"'^^™'  "^ '''^ 

i"  restoring  health  hJ^^Z^ ^^^^^^^^^  f^ -^ier 

curious  round  and  hollow  mr^fr^lf-  ''^  """"  ^^  '^le 

^^on  was  a  flourishing  vinnr.,^       l^'-V  ""'''^-    «"''- 


loe 


THE  SPRINGS  IN  1791. 


old  Dutch  house,  which,  notwithstanding  the  uncouth  aspect 
of  a  iireplacc  without  jams,  was  a  wch'omi:  retreat  from  the 
wcatlier.  The  tliunder,  hglitniiig,  and  rain  soon  came  on, 
and  prevailed  for  some  iiours,  but  left  a  clear  sky  in  the 
morning,  when  the  party  proceeded,  and  reached  Albany  at 
breakfast-time.  Some  of  the  party  were  greatly  alarmed 
at  the  sight  of  an  old  woman  at  a  door  in  one  of  the  streets, 
with  her  face  shockingly  disfigured  by  the  small-pox,  in  a 
state  of  activity,  for  one  of  tiie  ladies  had  never  had  that 
disease,  and  was  near  enough  to  be  exposed  to  the  con- 
tagion. By  tiie  presence  of  mind  of  her  companions,  how- 
ever, she  was  prevented  from  observing  the  painful  object, 
and  from  such  apprehension  as  they  felt  for  her,  until  the 
time  for  the  appearance  of  the  disease  had  passed.  The 
old  Dutch  church,  with  its  pointed  roof  and  great  window 
of  painted  glass,  stood  at  that  time  at  the  foot  of  State- 
street. 

At  Troy,  where  the  travellers  took  tea,  there  were  only 
about  a  dozen  houses :  the  place  having  been  settled  only 
three  years  by  people  from  Killingwortli,  Saybrook,  and 
other  towns  in  Connecticut.  Lansingburgh  was  an  older 
and  more  considerable  town ;  containing  apparently  more 
than  a  hundred  houses,  and  inhabited  principally  by  emi- 
grants from  the  same  state.  The  tavern  was  a  very  good 
one ;  but  the  inhabitants  were  so  hospitable  to  the  party, 
who  were  known  through  mutual  friends,  that  the  time  was 
spent  almost  entirely  at  private  houses.  After  a  delay  of 
two  nights  and  a  day,  they  proceeded  on  their  journey- 
Crossing  the  Hudson  to  Waterford  by  a  ferry,  they  went 
back  as  far  as  the  Mohawk  to  see  the  Cohoes  Falls,  of 
Avhich  they  had  a  fine  view  from  the  northern  bank,  riding 
along  the  brow  of  the  precipice  in  going  and  returning. 

On  the  road  to  the  Moliawk  the  tr>>.v."llers  met  a  party  of 
some  of  the  most  respectable  citizens  of  Albany  in  a  common 
country  wagon,  without  a  cover,  with  straw  under  feet,  and 
■with  wooden  chairs  for  seats  :  their  family-coach  being  too 
heavy  for  short  excursions.  Two  'gentlemen  on  horse- 
back, in  their  company,  finding  thai,  our  travellers  were 
going  to  Saratoga,  offered  to  accompany  them  to  the  scene 


IN  1791. 

landing  the  uncouth  aspert 
I  wch'onii:  retreat  from  the 
r,  and  rain  soon  came  on, 
)ut  left  a  clear  sky  hi  the 
led,  and  reached  Albany  at 
irty  were  greatly  alarmed 
I  door  in  one  of  the  streets, 
red  by  the  small-pox,  in  a 
ladies  had  never  had  that 
0  be  exposed  to  the  con- 
d  of  her  companions,  how- 
iserving  the  painful  object, 
they  felt  for  her,  until  the 
disease  had  passed.  The 
ed  roof  and  great  window 
time  at  the  foot  of  State- 

i  took  tea,  there  were  only 
f.c  having  been  settled  only 
illingwortli,  Saybrook,  and 
ansingburgh  was  an  older 
ontaining  apparently  more 
habited  principally  by  emi- 
'he  tavern  was  a  very  good 

0  hospitable  to  the  party, 

1  friends,  that  the  time  was 

1  houses.  After  a  delay  of 
roceeded  on  their  journey, 
rford  by  a  ferry,  they  went 

0  see  the  Cohoes  Falls,  of 

1  the  northern  bank,  riding 
in  going  and  returning. 

he  tr^.v,"llers  met  a  party  of 
zens  of  Albany  in  a  common 
,  with  straw  under  feet,  and 
heir  family-coach  being  too 
Two  'gentlemen  on  horse- 
g  thai  our  travellers  were 
company  them  to  the  scene 


A  WILDEHXESS. 


107 


wot^Sd  from  the  Lid  ''  I' ^?"'  ''™"^'"  '»  "'-'^'"7 
we  were  sealed      ^    ■  '''k  ^r'^  "P^^"  '^'  '■"^^^  -'  ^^hich 

t!ie  r  ier  ZllZ,  I  i""^  ''''  °»  '^'  «PP««"e  side  of 
the  aus;  of  thA  "  '""^  ''''  '^'  ''«"^^'  «»  Ji«<^«vering 
had  rZested  J  .''''""  "^  '^'  «'^^1'  '""'  ^'•''••e  Frazef 

»er,  .tLrZ:;:,to  bit  7Z7m,  '""  "°"  '»  ""^ 
invitino-  an,i  oi  .  '"^  Hudson,  was  very  un- 

Tsr^rrwasrue:*;  tf  w':  -?/7.^-^h"a 

the  afternoon  before  we  readS  .T  ''""''^^'V'^^  ^^'^  ^^ 
been  directed  for  oi^TodlS'  l"  m f'  '"  ^v''^  ^^  ''^'^ 
in  an  opening  of  ,1  e  dZkLs!T,u  '."  "  '"'"'^''^  P'""*' 

i-e-iier,  a.zd  Mlieu  or  liow  we  n,ight  hope  to  reach  there. 


lOS 


THE  SPRINGS  IN  1791. 


we  couM  not  tell.  We  were  for  a  time  extremely  dis- 
pirited, until  the  gentleman  who  had  joined  us  at  Hudson 
came  forward  (still  in  his  ball-djress),  and  endeavoured  to 
encourage  us,  saying,  that  if  we  would  but  trust  to  his  guid- 
ance, he  doubted  not  tiiat  he  should  be  able  to  conduct  us 
Bafely  and  speedily  to  a  more  comfortable  habitation. 

"  This  raised  our  hopes  ;  and  we  followed  him  cheerfully, 
though  the  day  was  now  at  its  close,  and  the  forest  seemed 
tliicker  and  darker  than  before.     When  the  last  light  at 
length  had  disappeared,  and  we  found  ourselves  in  the 
deepest  gloom,  our  guide  confessed  that  he  had  encouraged 
us  to  keep  us  from  despair ;  qnd  that  as  to  any  knowledge 
of  the  road,  he  had  never  been  there  before  in  his  life.    He 
however  dismounted,  tied  his  horse  behind  our  chair,  and 
taking  the  bridle  of  our  own,  began  to  lead  him  on,  groping 
his  way  as  well  as  he  was  able,  stepping  into  one  mud-hole 
after  another  without  regard  to  his  silk  stockings,  sometimes 
up  to  his  beauish  knee-buckles.     It  seemed  as  if  we  were 
going  for  a  long  time  down  a  steep  hill  into  some  bottom- 
less pit ;  and  every  few  minutes  one  wheel  would  pass 
over  a  log  or  a  stump  so  high  as  almost  to  overset  us.     At 
length  we  insisted  on  stopping,  and  spent  a  quarter  of  an 
hour  in  anxiety  and  doubt,  being  unable  to  determine  what 
we  had  better  do.     We  heard  the  voices  of   animals  in 
the  woods,  which  some  of  us  feared  might  attack  us.     At 
length  one  of  the  gentlemen  declared  that  a  sound  which 
we  had  heard  for  some  time  at  a  distance,  could  not  be  the 
howl  of  a  wolf,  for  which  we  had  taken  it,  but  must  be  the 
barking  of  a  wolf-dog,  and  indicated  that  the  habitation  of 
his  master  was  not  very  far  oil",  proposing  to  go  in  search 
of  it.     The  gentlemen  were  unwilling  to  leave  us  alone ; 
but  we  insisted  that  they  might  need  each  other's  assist- 
ance, and  made  them  go  together.     But  it  was  a  long  time 
before  we  heard  from  them  again.     How  long  they  were 
gone  I  do  not  know,  for  we  soon  became  impatient  and 
alarmed ;  but  at  length  we  discovered  a  light  among  the 
trees,  which  shining  upon  ttit  trunks  and  boughs,  made  a 
beautiful  vista,  like  an  endless  Gotniv-  n'"h,  ^ud  showed  a 


^r 


(J  1791. 

'or  a  time  extremely  dis- 

had  joined  us  at  Hudson 
bress),  and  endeavoured  to 
vould  but  trust  to  his  guid- 
ould  be  able  to  conduct  us 
mi'ortable  habitation, 
we  followed  him  cheerfully, 
lose,  and  the  forest  seemed 
,  When  the  last  light  at 
'e  found  ourselves  in  the 
icd  that  he  had  encouraged 

tiiat  as  to  any  knowledge 
here  before  in  his  life.  He 
orse  behind  our  chair,  and 
ran  to  lead  him  on,  groping 
stepping  into  one  mud-hole 
is  silk  stockings,  sometimes 
It  seemed  as  if  we  were 
eep  hill  into  some  bottom- 
es  one  wheel  would  pass 
s  almost  to  overset  us.  At 
and  spent  a  quarter  of  an 
g  unable  to  determine  what 

the  voices  of  animals  in 
iared  might  attack  us.  At 
eclared  that  a  sound  which 
a  distance,  could  not  be  the 
ad  taken  it,  but  must  be  the 
lated  that  the  habitation  of 

proposing  to  go  in  search 
iwilling  to  leave  us  alone ; 
it  need  each  other's  assist- 
er.  But  it  was  a  long  time 
fain.  How  long  they  were 
soon  became  impatient  and 
scovered  a  light  among  the 
trunks  and  boughs,  made  a 
Goiniv-  ?.'"h,  ^ud  showed  a 


LOST  m  THE  WOODS. 


109 


thousand  tall  columns  on  both  sides.     AVe  discovered  them 
roturnm^T,  accompanied  by  two  men,  who  led  us  oil'  the  road 
ami  stuck  np  hgluod  pine  knots  to  guide  our  friends 

"I  luler  then-  guidance  we  found  our  way  to  a  log-house. 
contu...:nc.  but  one  room,  and  destitute  of  every  thing  exeep 
hospitable  inhabitants;  so  that,  althougli  we  were  admitted 
we  ,oun    we  should  be  obliged  to  make  fuel.  arrangeZtas' 
we  could  for  sleepn.g.     Tiiere  was  no  lamp  or  candle ' 

Z       7"  V^'"^  ^y  J^'"'^  "^""'^  «t"''k  i"  tl'e  crevices  of 
ine  walls,      llie  conversation  of  the  family  proved  that 
wild  beasts  were  very  numerous  and  bold  in  the  surround- 
ing  forest    and   that  they  sometimes,   when   hungry,   an- 
proached  the  house ;  and  there  was  alarge  aperture  kft  it 
the  bottom  of  the  door  to  admit  the  dogs  when  in  danger 
fom  wolves.     The  iloor  extended  on  one  side  but  to  withfn 
the  ..stance  of  several  feet  of  tlie  wall,  a  space  being  left  to 
kindle  the  fire  upon  the  bare  ground;  and  wlien  wc  wanted 
tea  made,  the  mistress  of  the  house  could  produce  only  a 
single  kettle,  in  which  water  was  boiled  for  washincr  and 
every  otiier  purpose.     Slie  had  heard  of  teakettles,  but  had 
never  seen  one ;  and  was  impressed  witii  an  idea  of  the 
usefulness  of  sucJi  a  utensil.     AVhen  wc  had  spread  the 
table,   out  of  our  own  stores,  and  divided   tea-cups  and 
saucers,  a  porringer,  &c.,  amon-  us,  we  seated  ourselves 
partly  on  the  bedstead,  and  partly  on  a  kind  of  arm-chair! 
which  was  formed  by  an  old  round  table  when  raised  per- 
penclicularly,  and  thus  partook  of  a  meal. 

"AVe   were,    however,    suddenly  alarmed   by   cries   or 
screams  at  a  little  distance  in  the  forest,  which  some  of 
us  supp(,sed  to  be  those  of  wolves  or  bears.     Our  host 
after  listening  a  while,  declared  his  belief  that  they  were  the 
cries  of  some  travellers  who  had  lost  their  way,  and  pro- 
ceeded  with  the  gentlemen  to  search  for  them.    They  found 
our  two  expected  friends,  who  had  followed  the  path  lighted 
by  the  torches,  but  unfortunately  wandered  from  it  a  little 
and  soon  found  before  them  a  wall  too  high  to  reach  from' 
heir  stirrups.     They  attempted  to  retreat ;  but  found  it  also 
behind  them;  and  though  they  rode  round  and  round,  feel- 
mg  lor  a  place  of  exit,  could  find  none,  and  then  began  to 

10*  ^ 


110 


THE  SPRINGS  IN  1791. 


call  for  assistance,  hoping  that  some  dweUing  might  be 
within  the  reach  of  their  voices.  Being  hapi)ily  rehcved  and 
restored  to  us,  the  adventures  of  the  evennig  served  ;is  a 
subject  of  pleasantry.  They  had  unconsciously  entered  a 
pound  or  pen  for  bears,  by  a  very  narrow  entrance,  Nvhich 
in  the  darkness  they  could  not  lind  again,  and  thus  their 
embarrassment  was  fully  explained.  We  slept  that  mght 
on  our  luggage  and  saddles;  but  our  hospitable  hosts  re- 
fused all  reward  in  the  morning. 

•'  On  reaching  the  Springs  at  Saratoga,  we  found  b"* 
three  habitations,  and  those  poor  log-houses,  on  the  high 
bank  of  the  meadow,  where  is  now  the  western  side  of  the 
street,  near  the  Round  Rock.     This  was  the  only  spring 
then  visited.     The  houses  were  almost  full  of  strangers, 
among  whom  were   several  ladies   and   gentlemen   from 
Albany;  and  we  found  it  almost  impossible  to  obtain  ac- 
commodations, even  lor  two  nights.     We  found  the  Round 
Rock  at  that  time  entire;  the  large  tree  which  some  years 
since  fell  and  cracked  a  fissure  in  it  being  then  standing  near, 
and  the  water,  which  occasionally  overflowed,  and  increased 
the  rock  by  its  deposites,  keeping  the  general  level  three 
or  four  inches  below  the  top.     The  neighbourhood  of  the 
Spring,  like  all  the  country  we  had  seen  for  many  miles, 
was  a  perfect  forest ;  and  there  were  no  habitations  to  be 
seen  in  all  the  vicinity,  except  the  three  log-houses,  which 
afforded  us  little  more   than  a  shelter.     We  arrived  on 
Saturday,  and  left  there  on  Monday  morning  for  liailston, 
which  we  reached  after  a  short  ride.     But  there  the  ac- 
commodations  for  visiters  were  still  less  invitmg.     The 
Springs,  of  which  there  were  several,  were  entirely  unpro- 
tected, on  the  borders  of  a  woody  swamp,  and  near  the 
brook,  in  which  we  saw  bubbles  rising  in  several  places, 
which  indicated  other  springs.     There  were  two  or  three 
miserable  habitations,  but  none  in  which  a  shelter  could  be 
obtained.     There  was  a  small  hovel,  into  which  some  of 
the  water  was  conducted  for  bathing;  but  as  there  was 
nothing  like  comfort  to  be  found,  we  proceeded  homeward 
after  spending  a  short  time  at  the  place." 

Such  is  a  brief  account  of  a  journey  to  die  Sprmgs  in  the 


J  1791. 

some  ilwelling  might  be 
Being  haj  i)ily  relieved  and 
■  the  evening  served  as  a 
id  unconsciouBly  entered  a 
ry  narrow  entrance,  which 

ihid  again,  and  thus  ilieir 
led.  We  slept  that  night 
It  our  hospitable  hosts  re- 

t  Saratoga,  we  found  but 
Dr  log-houses,  on  the  high 
low  the  western  side  of  the 
This  was  the  only  spring 
3  almost  full  of  strangers, 
idies  and  gentlemen  from 
ist  impossible  to  obtain  ac- 
rhts.  We  found  the  Itound 
irge  tree  wliich  some  years 

I  it  being  then  standing  near, 
ly  overflowed,  and  increased 
ling  the  general  level  three 

The  neighbourhood  of  the 
!  had  seen  for  many  miles, 
5  were  no  habitations  to  be 

the  three  log-houses,  which 
a  shelter.  We  arrived  on 
londay  morning  for  Ballston, 
ort  ride.  But  there  the  ac- 
re still  less  inviting.  The 
several,  were  entirely  unpro- 
,'oody  swamp,  and  near  the 
;es  rising  in  several  places, 
There  were  two  or  three 
;  in  which  a  shelter  could  be 

II  hovel,  into  which  some  of 
bathing;  but  as  there  was 

nd,  we  proceeded  homeward 

the  place." 

journey  to  Uie  Springs  in  the 


r 


THE  PRESS. 


ill 


last  century;  and  how  difficuh  it  is   ,o  realize  th.f  t), 
changes  which  liav.^  «;n^„  ■  '•-•iiize  that  the 

within  the  1  ^  o    L   "a,  r"'r^'""  '''"'■  '"''''"  P'''^^ 

out  findin.  evidence  o?  i  J      ^r  '  ''^'''  ''"  '''  '""'^  ^»'' 

effected  i^  a  sho"te:  perToT!"'  "  "'''  ^''""^  ^''^'^'--'  «'''- 

On  the  road  up  Connecticut  Kiver,  over  whirl,  I  n«.   i 

umMmmM 

country  within  a  few  years.  ""  °''^'  '''« 

schtlmate,  on  I  tb  s^ntcrX  f '''?  '"^^'"f*^"'  ^"  "''^ 
and  recollecting  th^  Z  leZZ  hlTh  ^f" "''"^-fl--^  ^ 
editor  of  the  vUlage  j„u  nal  I  re,l  d  tr^^  '"^'"'"'^^'^ 
past  days,  and  Joungcd  se  era  out  f^.^'^'^^^'^^  «f 
my  stay  in  the  nhrn      nl  '"  ^"*  ™''™  *'"""& 

ovlrhea'r^^S^hle   ittle  I  hTkr^''^  }  ''''''  ^^^'^  ^"^ 

of  GSttenburg,''Ss:oen,  S  Zl  tlLv'  V'-'H'^ 
reached  those'of  Firmin  Didot^ i  1^^^^:^  ''^ 
what  a  mass  was  tliero '     P^nf,,,;-,      r  .  i     ■    ,  '*°" 

the  most  useful.    There  was  thp  Z.\ii     '        '        '  '"'"'^P* 


113 


ROUTE  UP  CONNECTICUT  ni\  F,U. 


r 


iu  lumbering  uprights  and  s.mp  e  swccpu,,  1  -'  J'^l^  ^    « 
gree  of  reverence,  because  lU  pl.ysiognomy  >^f  ^^  ^^  ""^.  "" 
Lesions  of  chiUlliood,  >vheu  I  had  contemi.laled   l  a^  ^/^ 
Iress,  though  its  phm  is  exploded,  and  the  P--  "   --^^ 
and  tiie  a4  of  days'  works  that  are  now  seen  to  have  been 
tast  d  u^on  it,  nuJlu  have  n>ade  iilty  cana  s  -;-.-."• 
Next  came  to  ".y  view  the  fo  ins.  the  .praros,  the      t.r^^^^ 
and  the  rest  of  their  family  down  to  duul,le  tweuly-lour- 
raos,  with  their  various  bindings,  gildings,  clasps,  and  em- 
En  'displayed,  and  their  lluttering  leaves  showuig  hmts 
oft"  tr  contenk     A  deluge  of  ideas  floated  through  my 
mind  at  the  sight ;  as  I  turned  from  the  books  which  boasled 
only  ot  revivin'g  the  fooleries  of  anti,uity  with  Us  know  edge 
to  U>ose  monuments  of  modem  mveutton,m  w h  c h  1  e 
giant  and  the  pigmy,  the  amaranth  and  the  four-o  clock  he 

"how  forcibly  may  the  quaint  words  of  some  of  the  old 
books  of  my  vision  be  applied  to  the  present  times . 

"Circa  hoc  etiam  tempus,"  says  Caxton  (in  coni.nuntione 
Polycronici  Kanulphi  Higden,  .\nglice  a  se  transUui,  qua, 
cunt  opcre  ipso  prodiit  Lon.'mi  a.  1482  (as)  circa  a.  lUo), 
"Circa  hoc  etiam  tempus  .-also  abowtc  tins  tyme  the 
crafte  of  empryntynge  was  fyrst  founde  m  Magounce  in 
ITmayne.  Why  the  crafte  is  multiplycd  thorugh  the  worlde 
\n  ma^ty  places,  and  bokes  be  hadd  grcte  chepe  and  m  grete 
nombre  bycause  of  the  same  crafte."    ^ 

Like  as  says  an"Anonymus  auctor    m  14o7 :— 

»  Printerys  of  bokis  wer  this  tyme  mightely  mulleplied  m 

Maguncie  and  thursrh  out  the  world;  and  thei  began  fnst, 

and  they  held  the  cniftis.     And  this  time  mony  men  began 

for  to  be  more  sotell  in  craftis  and  suyfter  than  ever  they 

wer  a  fore."  ,  i  •    i  „„ 

After  these  came  such  a  motley  army  of  mankind  as 
no  masquerade  ever  presented,  composed  of  the  readers  ot 
all  ages  and  chines,  of  all  hues  and  characters.  1  hese  1 
cannot  undertake  to  describe:  but  if  it  be  as  amusing  to 
others  as  it  was  to  myself  to  fancy  their  appearance,  they 
may  agreeably  fill  up  some  hour  of  leisure  by  recalling 
them. 


a 

i] 
c 
d 
c; 

Pi 
a 

ar 


Mu 

h 
A 

] 

and 

anc 

we 

sine 

stru 

culti 

talei 

Gen 

skill 

read 

laboi 

over( 

marl* 

whic 

plant 

woul( 

ment 


ricuT  nivF.K. 

;  sweeping  lever  with  a  dc- 
lysiogiiomy  revived  tlic  iin- 
luul  contempliiled  il  as  the 
d,  and  tlu;  power  ol'  muscle 

are  now  seen  to  have  been 
3  iil'ty  canals  across  Daricn. 
IS,  the  (piiirtos,  the  octavos, 
wn  to  duul)lc  tweuly-l'our- 
s,  gildings,  clasps,  and  em- 
taring  leaves  showing  hints 

ideas  floated  through  my 
cm  the  books  which  boasted 
inti<iuity  with  its  knowledge, 
n  mvention,  in  whicli  the 
iilh  and  the  four-o'clock  lie 

words  of  some  of  the  old 
0  the  present  limes  ! 
lys  Caxlon  (in  coniinuatione 
.\nglice  a  se  translati,  qute 
a.  1482  (as)  circa  a.  1455), 
dso  abowtc  this  tyme  the 
rst  founde  in  Magounce  in 
ultiplyed  thorugh  the  worlde 
add  grcte  chepe  and  ui  grete 
rafte." 

i  auctor"  in  1457: — 
tyme  mightely  multeplied  hi 
world ;  and  thei  began  frist, 
d  this  time  mony  men  began 
and  suyfter  than  ever  they 

notley  army  of  mankind  as 
composed  of  the  readers  of 

ES  and  characters.  These  I 
but  if  it  be  as  amusing  to 

fancy  their  appearance,  they 

[lOur  of  leisure  by  recalling 


r 


MITSIC. 


113 


a  few  whi     Iv.  .?  Itmage  ihc,  granjfalher,  »i,h  not 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

"'  "'«  cnoirs.     1  here  is  scarcely  any  thuiff  in  whu-h 

G  rlny/^,!/""'"""  f  ?'"  °'"  ^^^'y'  S^vitzerland.  and 

S?r^'    ^  ^'"'"'  "^  ^^^"  composers,  and  the  native 

eairs^r^r"'""^'""^  ^''^  '"usical  instruments.    Co™ 

labour  :,n''  '''  'P'  '°  ^''^'^''^  ^h^t  «"r  countrymen 

marks  ^n\i  "  'Y^  ^''  ^""'^^^  complimented  with  re! 

wh  ch  S/t  T"'.  ""'r  '"  ^''"'^"'=^'  °^'^^  '-g'h  of  time 

Phmo     1         '^"'^'^  '"  ''■''''"  "P  ^  '■''''  ^^'  '"""i^'  like  a 
ph  n  tof  slow  growth,  many  of  them  believe  that  ever^  effort 

ment  m  their  day  would  be  presumptuous.    We  must  there- 


i 


114 


ROUTE  IIP  CONNECTICUT  RIVER. 


fore  transplant  some  languishing  Italian  troupe  from  the 
sties  of  foreign  green-rooms,  or  tow  acoss  the  Atlantic 
some  second-rate  puller,  as  windy  as  a  porpoise,  to  howl 
and  make  the  grimaces  of  the  rack,  and  set  our  pretenders 
iu  ecstasies.     Now  all  this  is  founded  on  mere  mistake. 

In  the  first  place,  the  people  of  Italy,  who  have  the  credit 
of  being  relined  in  throat  and  ear  beyond  all  the  rest  of  the 
race  of  men,  have  no  more  taste  than  you  or  I,  nor  half  as 
much.     They  listen  to  street  musicians  whom  we  could 
never  tolerate  ;  and  as  for  the  performaiiccs  of  their  masters, 
they  never  liear  them.     The  common  people  of  Italy  have 
no  training  in  music  except  tlie  chanting  in  their  churches 
and  funeral  processions,  and  the  strumming  of  guitars  in  the 
streets.     The  plain  matter  of  f^ict  is,  divesting  the  subject 
of  all  poetry — that  is,  of  all  falsehood  or  ignorance— that 
our    farmers'   sons    and   daughters,  wlicrever  they  attend 
singing-schools,  join  the    church  choir,  and  practise,    as 
they  generally  do,  at  home,  enjoy  advantages  far  superior  to 
those  of  the  common  people  of  Italy,  who  are  too  ignorant, 
poor,  and  degraded  to  have  such  advantages  in  their  reach, 
or  to  appreciate  them  if  they  had.    They  arc  not  musicians, 
they  do  not  sing  in  their  churches,  the  music  there  being 
conducted  by  hired  performers,  of  a  character  very  different 
from  our  choirs  of  volunteers  I  .^ssure  you,  and  they  arc  not 
familiarized  with  refined  music.    Here  is  enough  to  kill  one 
prejudice.     As  to  our  natural  want  of  genius  or  talent,  the 
presumption  is  entirely  gratuitous,  and  we  may  challenge 
the  proof,  rejecting  the  idea  in  toio  mitil  it  be  produced. 
And  so  with  the  doctrine  that  our  progress  in  this  or  any 
other  improvement  must  be  slow,  because  this  or  that  Eu- 
ropean nation  cliose  to  be  five  or  ten  centuries  in  emerging 
from  semi-barbarism— this  is  as  idle  as  the  other,  in  all  ap- 
plications.    Such  a  doctrine,  although  it  is  swallowed  and 
acted  upon  every  day  by  multitudes  of  our  intelligent  coim- 
trymen,  ought  to  be  rejected,  like  certain  other  productions 
of  the   Old  World  which   are  unsuited  to  our  stomachs. 
There  is  no  reason  why  we  should  not  introduce  any  im- 
provement, physical  or  moral,  to  be  found  on  earth,  com- 
patible with  our  state  of  society.     ""''  -----i--  ■  «.i...- 


AVhoever  teaches  oiher- 


sp( 
sio; 
toi( 
Wl 

Am 

bo  ! 

far 

fron 

we 

hav( 

thou 

com 

byp 

repu 

enric 

have 

pleas 

with 

said  I 

centu 

state 

Ah 

cultiv 

done 

on  its 


ICUT  RIVER. 

g  Italian  troupe  from  the 
•  tow  acoss  the  Atlantic 
Jy  as  a  porpoise,  to  howl 
ick,  and  set  our  pretenders 
iinded  on  mere  mistake. 
:'  Italy,  who  have  the  credit 
r  hcyond  all  the  rest  of  tho 

than  you  or  I,  nor  half  as 
tusicians  whom  we  could 
•formauccs  of  their  masters, 
nmon  people  of  Italy  havt; 
chanting  in  their  churches 
strumming  of  guitars  in  the 
ict  is,  divesting  the  subject 
Ischood  or  ignorance — that 
ers,  wherever  they  attend 
!h  choir,  and  practise,  as 
r  advantages  far  superior  to 
[taly,  who  are  too  ignorant, 
1  advantages  in  their  reach, 
1.  They  arc  not  musicians, 
ches,  the  music  there  being 
of  a  character  very  different 
SBure  you,  and  they  arc  not 

Here  is  enough  to  kill  one 
ant  of  genius  or  talent,  the 
)us,  and  we  may  challenge 
I  toto  until  it  be  produced, 
lur  progress  in  this  or  any 
V,  because  this  or  that  Eu- 
r  ten  centuries  in  emerging 

idle  as  the  other,  in  all  ap- 
though  it  is  swallowed  and 
udes  of  our  intelligent  coim- 
ke  certain  other  productions 

unsuited  to  our  stomachs, 
ould  not  introduce  any  im- 
to  be  found  on  earth,  com- 
y.     Whoever  teaches  other- 


r 


Mtrsic. 


110 


wise  teaches  herrsv      Wn  !,....„ 

.ions  of  j:„n;p '  i  I  „i;7r:?  r'''^^^':""-''  •"  »'•«  ««- 

earnest  about  it,  and"  the  thil^w  dj  d^l""'u'7  '"' 
no  arbitrary  eovernmeni  m  r  .'.,""' ""^  """".  We  have 
tlivisions  i.;  socetytrnn   1  '"'  ""  •^^^^«'"-il^«l'lc 

i'"P-o,ra,.le  HSJi^  J^;^--'  co-operation,  no 
of  the  inarhinerv  of  rUiU  "'"  ^"^^'"'^  "«  '"fk 

direct  it,  no  wI?of  in  ,  ''""  *.'^.  '"""'  "'«  '"""I  "r  to 
world,  ;o  J  ,;  1  ?""'  """'  °"'^'-  'l""^'«^«  01-  the 
encouragenunt  i;;!.:^       ^^'""   '"   ""dcrtaking,   or   of 

spS;  ^this  z  \v!;:z  'T'\  '^'"^^^^ '—  •» 

«ion  the  inllue,^ce  of  nr  i  '".'""•"'  '"  ^''  ^'^'P^^*' 

tolerably   . lisere dlt-.h  e'^'^^"'^"''^ '"'^  >'  ""''"""'I^'J.  -d  in- 
AVhere  do  weTo  v     1,  1    "■  T^^'^'"''    =>"''    ''•''^''"ff^. 

^n,,  in  so::Kr:!T::::;zt:^'7r'  ^"""^'«^- 

Americans?     And  the  other  fin        .^\P^.  "'^  "'J"stice  of 

j^o  a.,ong  ..Join' ;:'^:t:;^i-  -^  'jVi^'^y-'^'^ 

f'lr  ,11  treat  these  our  true  friends     , ?.  .  "'  ""'  '° 

from  their  calls  and  rleltr  I  .^  r  "  "''"^ '">' '""^" 
-  do  not  meet  them  S'^miK?  Xm^e" ' 'r^' 
have  reason  (o  look  here  for  an  asvin m  I^T  T'  ''^^ 
tliough  among  the  fairest  e\wn«f.'/  ^''""''  *»"' 

have  no  native  talent,  ge  i  ,s  o      J^T"     (  "'^•■>^'f— « 

pleasure  on  the  beat  ties  of  nnt ,  !        ,  '^''  '"''''  ^^'^^ 

-"ft  the  music  orifcr       '""but  wrr""^^'^"^'' 
said  that  we  are  insensi/r  ,?  I  '^  ^'"""P^^^s  have 

centuries  mu  t  pass  S  re  ^  beauty  and  grace,  and  that 

«t..e  of^rennemro/Tj;;SML;iir  ''  ^'"^  ^'  '^^' 

<lone  wtthin  two  o    three  yet     to  nl?  ^'"^'™?t  '''''  '^^'^" 
on  its  proper  footing  tl^n^ hlf^/^^Cjn* 


116 


nOVTE  VV  CONNECTICUT  IJlvm. 


formed  in  Boston,  called  the  IMassarhusclts  Academy  of 
Music,  l>y  which  the  Gormiiu  system  of  jiuenilc  and  popular 
instruction  has  been  introduriMl  in  several  of  our  cities,  and 
to  some  extent  in  the  country,  diitlly  throiifrh  Messrs. 
Mason  and  Ives  ;  the  success  has  been  astonishing  to  those 
who  have  embraced  the  common  erroneous  views  about 
national  genius,  native  inferiority,  tSic.,  Sic.  This  important 
step,  to  which  many  of  the  rising  generation  will  owe  great 
sources  of  pleasure  for  life,  has  been  primarily  due  to  Mr. 
Woodbridge,  the  eidighlened,  philanthropic,  and  persevering 
editor  of  the  American  Annals  of  Education;  who,  after 
five  years  spent  in  Europe  among  the  literary  men  and  in- 
stitutions of  the  Old  World,  returned  to  his  native  comitry 
three  or  four  years  since  to  devote  himself  to  the  diffusion 
of  knowledge,  on  some  of  the  most  important  subjects,  for 
the  intellectual  and  moral  benefit  of  America.  All  that  a 
friend  of  the  country  need  wish  is,  that  he  may  impress  us 
all  with  the  great  truths  he  proclaims  as  strongly  as  he  has 
impressed  some  parents  with  the  fact  that  their  children 
have  flutes  and  organs  in  their  throats  whicli  may  be  very 
sweetly  and  very  cheaply  played  upon. 

A  young  man,  of  sallow  complexion  and  emaciated  ap- 
pearance, who  was  travelling  for  his  health,  was  on  the 
route  with  me.  lie  had  enjoyed  no  advantages  of  educa- 
tion superior  to  those  of  a  district  school,  until  the  clergy- 
man of  the  village,  perceiving  hi  him  that  insatiable  thirst 
for  knowledge  which  I  have  so  often  observed  in  the  young 
when  possessed  of  true  piety,  proposed  that  he  should  pre- 
pare for  the  desk,  and  oifered  him  gratuitous  instruction. 
He  was  the  favourite  of  the  whole  town,  as  I  learned  from 
other  lips  than  his  own,  not  on  account  of  any  external 
grace  or  beauty,  for  in  those  he  was  far  from  being  rich; 
but  because  his  character  was  of  an  elevated  kind,  and  his 
life  one  of  the  most  blameless  and  honourable.  No  friendly 
oflice  in  his  power  was  withholden  from  anybody;  and  how 
many  times  in  a  year  may  a  truly  benevolent  man  confer 
kindness,  if  he  but  seeks  for  opportunities  !  Every  one  in 
such  a  village  of  farmers  knew  what  his  neighbours  did, 
without  inquiring  from  mere  idle  curiosity.     Of  course  the 


h 
h 
\\ 
u 

P' 
in 

a 

fo 
m 
na 

wl 
no 
die 
wa 
as£ 
coi 
ant 
our 
but 
of  I 

din; 

of  I 
had 
that 
spec 
som 
no  til 


riruT  Riviii. 

lassarhusclts  Acailomy  of 
tcin  of  jiupnilc  and  popular 
n  several  of  our  cities,  ami 
■,  cliii'lly  throiiffli  Messrs. 
,«  been  aslonisliing  lo  tliose 
an  erroneous  views  atiout 
,  tSic,  itc.  This  important 
T  jreneration  will  owe  great 
I  been  primarily  due  to  Mr. 
ilanthropic,  and  persevering 

of  Education;  who,  after 
ig  the  literary  men  and  in- 
rncd  to  his  native  coimtry 
jto  himself  to  the  difTusion 
nost  important  subjects,  for 
^fit  of  America.  All  that  d 
is,  that  he  may  impress  us 
laims  as  strongly  as  he  has 
he  fact  that  their  children 

throats  whicli  may  be  very 
J  upon. 

plexion  and  emaciated  ap- 
for  his  health,  was  on  the 
?d  no  advantages  of  educa- 
rict  school,  until  the  clergy- 
[i  him  that  insatiable  thirst 
often  observed  in  the  young 
iroposed  that  he  should  pre- 

him  gratuitous  instruction, 
lole  town,  as  I  learned  from 
on  account  of  any  external 
)  was  far  from  being  rich; 
of  an  elevated  kind,  and  his 
nd  honourable.  No  friendly 
len  from  anybody ;  and  how 
ruly  benevolent  man  confer 
pportunities  !  Every  one  in 
w  what  his  neighbours  did, 
e  curiosity.     Of  course  the 


RESPECTAniMTV  OF  INDISTRY.  jjy 

Parly  humble  life  of  this  vmi.l,  ...„     i 

wen.  .surpri.sr.l  at  the  „„,,,|"       .  ""  ^'""•■■^^'■<l  and 

out  the  !ud  of  j;:;:r , :''^^^^^^^^ 

«elf.     As  his  sulKstmu  .  1...    ,1    ;  ;'.'.'   ;•'"'«"'""  '"">- 

«tnmgd..„.t„n:;^.::  :;,,,  ;7^-;-^ 

sion,  but   had  lu.i   v...  c         !  '  """'"  •''«'''nt  mis- 

^HH.oient.oeie.iTh    I  ^"^  '"'''"•""«'-.  •''  'Hi^ious  and 

whohadata;;;:'^  :;r'-'';];/:;>7';7 

•Tged  by  his  townsmen  to     ke  ^'i...  ''"*''"'■''  ^'''^ 

pan  of  the  countrv   w  , .?.  T''  **  J^""^  '»  a  more  healthy 

k  state,  a  j:  ?i.:^Seiu:r '"""''  r  '^  ■"  ^  "-'"«^- 

a  wagon,  and  su,l.    co  n         ^         '  '""'  ""  "'*'  '^""«  «"<' 

for  ut  w^s  looS 'uS  ' '>  Sd":rJ:^  r""'  *"  "^^"  "^^ 

may  yet  live  and  remove  Iho.e  to  Love  "  r^^''^'  '"'^ 
native  village.  '   '      '"^"'"'  '"'  ''^no'"" '» his 

.Ih'wi:^t:;^^  :r;;r"  -^^'-^  "^'"^  -^^  ^'^ 

nothing  in  the  n.iln  n  ns  h':;.::!  ''^'"""^  ,  "'^-  As 
dices  of  the  people  forbids  the  exalSoT^.V  ?  ""I  ''^'J"' 
ward  tendency  is  in  a  thons! J..  ""'"''  ''"■■  "P" 

assisted,  when'in  Z^  :!Z^  i^Z^^C r'.  'T 
couraged  or  entirely  suppressed  Tul  ^^, '^"P^'^^^'X  ^is- 
and  distinction  is  n'ot  o^  t  p  r  ..H  aTl  7'"'"" 
our  constitution  merely;  it  is  not  nnl!!    !  .  ^"'''"'"'  '" 

but  is  fa.ni.iaHy  k„ot\;'j^  „"  r  '^ ''C:  it  if"  ^'"'^'' 
of  notoriety,  that  not  a  few  nf  t\,^  '^  *  ""'*"" 

clifferentle^medproet  ons  ha  '     i""  T""  T"'"'  '"  ">« 

some  ;f  our  luxur  ordtLU^:  ri  ''•  "'7''  r'.'°"^" 
not.ns.  really  believe  thatZ:rr5;Lgt?SlS^ 


lit 


ROUTK  HP  CONNKCTICIIT  HIVKR. 


r 


•n  bonoHt  haiulicrafl  more  (Ipgradinp  than  idleness  in  its 
gcntcclcr  t'lirms. 

The  hiiryinjr.^rniinds  of  New-Kngland  are  ainonp  ihc 
most  iiiieresliiiir  oWjrcts  to  wliicli  ilic  triivellcr  lan  direcl  his 
atte.ition.  MonumciilM  are  to  lie  (mind,  in  ainioMt  all  ihc 
older  HeitienH-nii,  hearin),'  uneijuivocal  tesiiniony  to  the 
learninir  as  wi  II  as  pii'ty  of  our  niiccstors,  and  the  good 
order  whii-l\  lias  ever  prevailed  in  their  Mti-iety.  I  wish, 
with  all  my  heart,  that  I  could  refer  to  ihe  condition  of  these 
veiierahle  memorials  as  evidence  of  a  hecoiniiij?  regard  for 
them  among  the  ndiahiiantH,  and  a  proper  care  for  their 
preservHtion.  Unfortunately,  (piitc  the  contrary  is  the  case  ; 
for  ancient  grave-stones  are  often  allowed  to  become  over- 
thrown hy  the  frost,  and  to  lie  covered  with  moss  or  herbage 
from  year  to  year.  One  single  person  in  each  village,  by 
proper  means,  might  incite  the  people  to  keep  theii  ceme- 
teries well  enclosed,  and  kept  in  order ;  and  nothing  but  a 
little  spirit  is  wanting  through  the  country  at  large,  to  have 
the  most  venerable  memorials  of  the  dead  preserved  from 
unnecessary  injury  and  from  loss. 

So  closely  connected  are  many  of  these  monuments  with 
important  events  in  the  history  of  tiie  country,  that  we 
ought  to  use  them  as  practical  assistants  in  the  instruction 
of  the  young ;  and  parents  and  teachers  might  commtmicate 
many  lasting  impressions  to  their  (children,  by  visiting  with 
them  the  graves  of  the  good  and  learned  men  of  pre- 
ceding generations,  inviting  their  aid  in  deciphering  the  epi- 
taphs, enumerating  their  praiseworthy  deeds,  and  repeating 
some  oftheir  virtuous  counsels.  Why  should  such  simple  and 
deligiuful  modes  and  topics  of  instruction  be  neglected,  while 
much  complicated  and  expensive  machinery  is  employed  to 
fix  the  minds  of  the  young  exclusively  on  distant  nations 
and  countries  ? 

With  thoughts  like  these,  and  with  many  feelings  which 
I  shall  not  attempt  to  express,  I  have  visited  many  of  the 
burying-grounds,  usually  at  morning  or  evening,  when  the 
journey  of  the  day  had  been  performed,  or  before  it  had 
begun  ;  and  thus  1  have  sometimes  obtained  the  knowledge 
of  facts  which  I  had  not  been  able  to  derive  from  living 


I 

( 
r 

i! 
s 

P 

■i 

In 
ui 
cc 

g< 

se 

in< 

fie 

lea 

thi 

ho 

tas 

dci 

1 

jusi 

bov 

the 

flov 

nea 

of  t 

thej 

livel 

so 

wou 

as  V 

N 

try  1 

Anili 

grazi 

com  I 


ricuT  nivKR. 

ratlinp  than  idleness  in  iU 

v-Kngland  are  nmonp  the 
ilic  triivclhT  lan  direct  hi« 
le  (luind,  in  ainioNt  all  the 
inivooal  tesiiuiony  to  the 
r  niict'slorn,  and  the  good 
I  in  tlic'ir  Mtcicty.  I  wish, 
Ccr  to  iho  condition  of  tiicsc 
■f  of  a  lircdiniiij?  regard  lor 
id  a  proper  care  lor  tlieir 
ilc  tlie  contrary  i«  the  case  ; 
'n  allowed  to  become  over- 
vered  with  moss  or  herbage 
person  in  each  village,  by 
people  to  keep  theii  ceme- 
1  order ;  and  nothing  but  a 
le  country  at  large,  to  have 
of  the  dead  preserved  from 

iy  of  these  monuments  with 
y  of  tlie  country,  that  we 
assistants  in  the  instruction 
teachers  might  commimicate 
Bir  children,  by  visiting  with 
1  and  learned  men  of  pre- 
ir  aid  in  deciphering  the  epi- 
worlhy  deeds,  and  repeating 
Why  should  such  simple  and 
istruction  be  neglected,  while 
ve  machinery  is  employed  to 
tcclusively  on  distant  nations 

nd  with  many  feelings  which 
I  have  visited  many  of  the 
irning  or  evening,  when  the 
performed,  or  before  it  had 
imes  obtained  the  knowledge 
1  able  to  derive  from  living 


r 


AMIIBRST. 


no 


nmrk,  that  tho.o  who  hav^  f  '. T,     '":"^  "'  P^f^'"'  '«- 
Kroutuls.  n.ay  p.-rform  a  useful 'S  bv  ^  "'''  ''"'y*"*' 

"criptious.  and   n.aking  draw  „i    of  m        "'  '°''^"'«  "" 

.erved  or  published  for  .he  benefit        X;^^^  'V.^T" 

and  his  own  m.5,:^ri;i;  ■!::?:; '"'^"^'7-1 
contammg  his  collection  will  hercX  bt  '  .  "  "^ 
generation  more  worthy  of  iL  dL  1  »"'^«'^ ''y  «"me 
selves  to  be.  ""  ""»"  "'f"  «''"w  our- 

field.  I  ha've  not  Ll;;  Sail  ,"'""'*''  """,  ^''""«- 
less  to  record  all  the  reflertinn  f  ^  "'emoranda.  much 
this  or  any  oti  er  p^,  „  '1  T''"''  "''""''^  '»  "'«  «" 
however,  iJ^i  No  iharnn.on  n7  '"'7'^""^  '""'•  '  •^'""'««. 
tasteful  manner  „:C  'rZ  "'  """%'*""-'»"  '«  ">« 
deneeisusuallycelCtedintb  ."'">'  f  ''"^  ^"'^"P^"* 
In  an  orchard  Zc  ex.  .  tTh^r  T'  r  ".""f"'  "'*"• 
just  out  of  sight  from  the  s  ree.s  o  the  til  '  ''"''-"  ''"""''• 
bower  is  formed  by  adding  1  ""^"''  "  «P»ciou» 

the  shade  of  the  .Tees  "fl  Tr'"  ^"'^'^  ""^  ''"«»  '«> 
flowers.  A  a  ge  tS^'  sZd  "*"'  ',"  '^"'^  '^"^^'^^  ^'^^ 
neath  ;  and  as  the  coA.ions  o  l''""'.  "'"  ""°"'^  «""«  ^'^ 
of  the  fair  the  da/preSinrth  '' f  ^ '"^'f^ '''^ ''»»'^» 
they  preside  at  thc^mcn  inL  ..  "''  ''^'^'■''^^'^'  and 
livdie'st  and  m       aplp^^^  '^  "  ""  ''  ">« 

so  pure,  intelligent    a^,d  n      ,  "'        """^'"^J-     In 

would  fi'nd  mud  t'o  i  str'uc  him  in  a""^^'  ""  '""'^"^^ 
as  well  as  .o  excite  h,s  beurfee,";,;.  ^'"""''"   '"^"""«' 

try  hV  £  lo'faLTe""  '"  ""^  ^^^  "^  '^^  -- 
Alherst.  r  had  adm  red  r'^n"'  "  '"-'^''y  P'^ee  as 
grazing-cout^trT  with  it?  n  ''°'^'  ''"■'""'^'  ^"'^  '"'^""e 
common  v."  age!     How  leat'  /"T*  ""/'  "  "''^  ''"'y  ^ 

-orthefinLeiisr:t!:3.^h:-us:;rr^^^ 


120 


ROTTTE  UP  CONNECTICUT  RIVER. 


the  most  flourishing  in  the  Union ;  and  two  academies,  one 
for  th-  e<lucation  of  females,  are  found  in  other  parts  of  the 
town.     The  academies  of  New-England,  and  particularly 
those  of  Massachusetts,  form  one  of  the  most  important 
branches  of  the  great  machinery  of  public  education.    Their 
history  shows  the  importance  of  making  provision  for  the  in- 
struction of  the  young,  even  if  some  of  the  means  adopted  be 
not  immediPtely  found  as  useful  as  might  be  desired.     In 
Massachusetts  there  are  sixty-two  academies,  which  derive 
funds  from  various  sources;  twenty-one  of  tjiem  from  a 
township  of  hind  each,  in  the  state  of  Maine.     For  some 
years  they  were  generally  in  a  condition  far  from  flourish- 
ing, and  some  in  decay.     Public  opinion  having  since  im- 
proved in  relation   to  instruction,  these  institutions  have 
been  rendered  extremely  efficient  in  affording  it,  and  will 
probably  become  much   more  so.     There  were  probably 
about  twenty-five  thousand  pupils  in  the  academies  and 
private  schools  of  Massachusetts  in  1S32,  out  of  a  popula- 
tion, according  to  the  census  of  that  year,  of  a  little  more 
than  six  hundred  thousand.     Six  of  the  academies  are  de- 
voted exclusively  to  females,  and  many  of  them  have  a 
female  department.     The  branches  of  instruction  and  dis- 
cipline have  been  much  improved,  but  not  a  little  remains 
to  be  done.     One  of  the  greatest  evils  with  many  of  them 
is,  that  they  embrace  many  branches  of  secondary  import- 
ance, even  when  the  pupils  are  to  devote  but  a  few  months  to 
their  studies.    Comparatively  intelligent  as  the  common  peo- 
ple of  this  part  of  the  country  are  supposed  to  be,  they  are 
yet  unable  to  appreciate  the  real  acquisitions  of  their  children, 
or  at  least  generally  apprehend  that  others  cannot.     They 
therefore  demand  visil)le  and  tangible  signs,  to  indicate  to  Uic 
senses  what  without  such  iiid  might  not  be  discovered  or 
valued.     A  picture  must  be  painted,  a  few  tunes  strummed 
on  the  piano,  or  a  few  words  of  some  foreign  tongue  ac- 
quired, to  bear  witness   to  tiieir  intellectual  progress — to 
show  that  the  teacher  has  returned  to  the  parent  a  quid 
pro  quo — the  value  of  his  money.     I  have  often  seen  such 
things  displayed  ;  and  how  much  is  it  like  Hudibras's  cul- 
prit at  the  bar, — 


'ICUT  RIVER. 

I ;  and  two  academies,  one 
found  in  other  parts  of  the 
-England,  and  particularly 
ne  of  the  most  important 
of  public  education.  Their 
making  provision  for  the  in- 
Tic  of  the  means  adopted  be 

as  might  be  desired.  In 
;o  academies,  which  derive 
irenty-one  of  tjiem  from  a 
ate  of  Maine.  For  some 
condition  far  from  flourish- 
!  opinion  having  since  im- 
)n,  these  institutions  have 
nt  in  affording  it,  and  will 
io.  There  were  probably 
pils  in  the  academies  and 
is  in  1S32,  out  of  a  popula- 
f  that  year,  of  a  little  more 
i  of  the  academies  are  de- 
ind  many  of  them  have  a 
■hes  of  instruction  and  dis- 
•d,  but  not  a  little  remains 
St  evils  with  many  of  them 
nches  of  secondary  import- 
0  devote  but  a  few  months  to 
lelligent  as  the  common  peo- 
re  supposed  to  be,  they  are 
iicquisitions  of  their  children, 

that  others  cannot.  They 
gible  signs,  to  indicate  to  ihe 
might  not  be  discovered  or 
nted,  a  few  tunes  strummed 
)f  some  foreign  tongue  ac- 
■ir  intellectual  progress — to 
jrned  to  the  parent  a  quid 
By.  I  have  often  seen  such 
z\i  is  it  like  Hudibras's  cul- 


eXHIBITION  OP  AN  ACADEMY. 

n  -;      , — :  "  Holding  up  his  hand 
By  twel;e  freeholders  to  be  scann'd, 
That  by  their  skill  in  palmistry" 


121 


jusToT'fot'  '''""'"  ^^'•^"'^'  '''  ^'-^^  '-^^-^t  ^  were 

juucd  to  the  people  or  the  state  of  sodet^  T 1  ^ rj'? 
think,  might  have  fabricated  .rood  ones  •  bntll  ',7 

Senate,  sitting  "in  cold  dpl«i»»     /  •      •  ®  ^''*^" 

cheeks  at  nL/     1  .    ~('"^'  J"'''  cracking  our 

cneeks  at  old  steeple-crowned  bonnets  and  hoooed  nntti 
coats)-."  to  sacrifice  our  lives  to  honour.-  tS  L^e  'o 
a  ear  ul  tragedy,  the  heroine  of  which  had  a  provTndS 
tone:  »  Haow  naow  f  Is  that  you.  Roily?"  DaS  and 
thehons  in  a  calico  den;  and  Joseph,  with  two  fJom  teeA 
knocked  out,  a  head  taller  than  all  his  brethren,  and  .1  essed 
m  a  white  counterpane,  are  all  I  have  to  mention,  InaSn 
except  the  tune  of  "Farewell  ye  Green  Fields^  plated  by 


21* 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

Female  Cliaractcr — A  Connecticut  Sclinol — Scenery  on  Connecticut 
River— Uccrlleld— Turner's  Falls— Eiirly  Stale  of  the  Country. 

How  different  are  our  females  from  most  others  in  the 
worhl !  Hosv  much  is  society  iiideblcd  to  their  influence  ; 
how  large  a  portion  of  our  intelligence,  as  well  as  our  vir- 
tue, do  we  owe  to  them  as  individuals!  Wha«  would  ult 
country  1)0  if  they  were  allowed  less  influcMce  in  society  T 
how  much  like  our  country  might  others  soon  be  if  they  re- 
sembled it  in  this  respect !  In  what  does  the  excellence 
of  our  females  consist,  whence  is  it  derived,  how  may  it 
best  be  extended  and  perpetuated?  Such  questions  as 
these  force  themselves  upon  the  mind  of  a  traveller  in  our 
country ;  and  how  important  is  it  that  we  should  be  able  to 
answer  them ! 

In  what  does  their  excellence  consist  ?  In  every  thing, 
some  would  have  us  believe ;  and  indeed  it  would  be  diffi- 
cuU  to  find  any  thing  truly  good  of  which  they  are  not  the 
supporters  or  the  patrons,  if  not  the  projectors.  Let  an  in- 
telligent traveller  but  observe,  and  he  will  find  that  wherever 
there  is  an  upward  tendency,  a  refining  process  going  on, 
it  is  promoted  by  them.  They  are  more  dependent  than 
men  for  their  enjoyments  on  the  peace  and  good  order,  as 
well  as  the  intelligence  of  the  society  around  them  ;  they 
are  more  trained  to  feelings  of  dependence,  and  therefore 
more  readily  or  more  entirely  cast  tlieir  confidence  on  God. 
They  have  more  leisure  for  reflection,  and  can  judge  with 
more  deliberation  and  less  passion  than  men,  while  they 
have  better  opportunities  to  use  such  means  of  self-improve- 
ment as  they  possess.  As  they  converse  more  than  men, 
they  more  frequently  bring  their  own  minds  and  hearts  into 
comparison  with  others,  and  find  stronger  motives  for  ren- 
dering them  worthy  of  inspection. 

The  institutions  of  our  country  have  denied  to  females  the 


t 
I 

:; 

t 

11 

e 

e 

c 

f( 

is 

e; 

is 

w 

m 

h( 

hi 

ot 

se 

fit: 

cc 

di 

L( 

be 

he 

sa 
foi 
sai 

COi 

pe 
sp( 
no 
hai 
roc 
an: 
hoi 


XV  I. 

linol — Scenery  on  Connecticut 
-Early  Stale  of  the  Country. 

I  from  most  others  in  the 
ideblcd  to  their  influence  ; 
ligenee,  as  well  as  our  vir- 
viduals!  VVha*  would  ult 
1  less  influcMce  in  society? 
It  others  soon  be  if  they  re- 
what  does  the  excellence 
is  it  derived,  how  may  it 
ited  1  Such  questions  as 
mind  of  a  traveller  in  our 
t  that  we  should  be  able  to 

e  consist  ?  In  every  thing, 
id  indeed  it  would  be  diffi- 
of  which  they  are  not  the 
the  projectors.  Let  an  in- 
d  he  will  find  that  wherever 
I  refining  process  going  on, 
/  are  more  dependent  than 
;  peace  and  good  order,  as 
society  around  them  ;  they 
'  dependence,  and  therefore 
ist  tlieir  confidence  on  God. 
lection,  and  can  judge  with 
sion  than  men,  while  they 
such  means  of  self-improve- 
7  converse  more  than  men, 
r  own  minds  and  hearts  into 
id  stronger  motives  for  ren- 
m 


y  have  denied  to  females  the 


AN  OLD-FASHIONED  SCHOOL. 


128 


means  of  intellectual  improvement  proportioned  to  their  de- 
sires,  as  well  ns  a  proper  regard  to  their  sex.     In  conse- 
queiice,  we  find  that  lasliion  has  too  extensively  oceuS 
the  groun.!,  and  that  atteuipts  have  been  made  to  polisii  the 
manners  and  to  ensure  external  graces.     The  exilt  t  on 
an    the  in.luence  of  fem.les  i„  our  Country  are  Zi::^ 
to  their  domeslic  cdu.-ation ;  for  none  other  worthy  of  the 
name    is  yet  afibrded  them,  with  a  very  few  and^  mi  cd 
exceptions.     Our  best  men,  indeed,  have  been,  to  a  1  elt 
extent  moulded  at  home,  into  forms  in  which  they  have  oX 
expanded  in  after-life.    If  there  ever  was  a  country  n  wl  i  h 
female  in.luence  was  exercised  in  proportion  ,o  Z  value 
IS  our  own.     And  what  is  the  result  ?     Ask  the  man  whose 
early  instructions  and  examples  have  implanted  and  cher- 
ished every  good  thing  which  his  min.l  and  heart  contain  Td 
Mhose  mfluence  longest  remains,  even  after  dea""  has    e 
moved  us  sounre  from  his  sigh,.     Inquire  of  the  father  why 
he   abours  more  cheerfully,  values  his  own  character  more 
highly,  takes  greater  pleasure  in  home,  than  the  meTof 
other  countries.     Look  at  our  books  and  newspapers  and 
see  why  they  are  not  less  pure  than  they  are.^   yTu  3 
find,  If  you  have  the  knowledge  and  the  means  necessarv  to 
come  at  the  facts,  that  woman  is  exercising  a  contro    anj 
direction  of  a  most  extensive  and  salutary'kind  on    "o  iety 
Look  where  you  .v.ll,  ,f  you  see  aright,  wherever  good  is  To 
be  obtained  or  to  be  done,  or  evil  prevented,  you^wln  find 
her  or  her  mfluence.  ^  "* 

In  one  of  the  towns  in  Connecticut  (I  will  not  at  present 
say  which,  ahhough  I  am  now  out  of  Ihe  state),  I  i^epped 
for  a  few  minutes  into  a  school-house  one  day,  and  was 
saluted  by  such  a  confused  sound  of  voices  thai  J  harX 
could  remember  where  I  was.     The  teacher  was  mending 

spell ;  calling  to  a  covey  of  small  boys  to  be  quiet,  who  had 
nothing  to  do  but  make  mischief;  washing  a  bi^  r'^  e  .vhl 
had  been  placed  standing  on  a  bench  in  the  nfddlf  of  the 
room  for  punishment;  and  to  many  little  ones  passionately 
answenng  questions  of  "May  I  go  out?"  "  Mav  2 
home  ?"     ..  Shan't  Johnny  be  still  r^   -  May  I  dS»    ^ 


I 
I 


124 


ROUTE  UP  CONNECTICUT  RIVER. 


/ 


My  entrance  checked  the  din,  and  allowed  the  teacher  ant 
opportunity  to  raise  an  unavailing  complaint  of  the  total  in- 
difference of  the  public  towards  the  school,  the  neglect  and 
contempt  to  which  those  are  condemned,  by  universal  con- 
sent, who  undertake  the  instruction  of  the  young;  the 
manner  in  which  the  objects  of  education  are  underrated, 
even  by  the  best  members  of  tlie  community,  and  the  innu- 
merable evils  which  in  this  state  of  things  befall  the  children, 
the  parents,  and  the  public. 

Is  it  possible,  tliought  I,  that  in  old  Connecticut,  with  her 
two  millions  of  school-fund,  the  devotion  of  her  fathers  and 
many  of  her  children  to  literature  and  general  intelligence, 
with  all  her  influence  thus  gained  abroad,  and  the  reputation 
she  enjoys  for  fostering  education,  there  can  be  a  school  like 
this  1     Much  to  my  surprise,  however,  I  Irarnt  that  there 
are  many  more  which  are  not  superior  to  it.     And  why  is 
it?    1  afterwards  conversed  with  individuals  of  ihe  highest 
character  and  influence  in  the  place,  men  of  education,  and 
even  literary  distinction,  who  had,  I  doubt  not,  made  public 
expressions  in  favour  of  the  universal  diffusion  of  know- 
ledge ;  and  yet  not  one  of  them  could  give  me  any  real  in- 
formation in  relation  to  the  public  schools.     They  thought 
them  indispensable  appendages  to  society,  or  rather  the 
ground-work  of  intelligence;   and  believed  they  required 
great  and  imn.ediate  improvement.     But  what  were  their 
excellencies  or  deficiencies,  or  by  what  means  they  might 
be  improved,  they  seemed  neither  to  know  nor  greatly  to 
care.    Indeed,  they  generally  had  not  any  certain  knowledge 
of  the  number  of  the  schools,  their  location,  number  of  pupils, 
or  course  of  studies.    Those  who  had  attended  to  instruction 
in  any  form,  had  devoted  a  little  time  to  the  higher  schools 
in  the  place,  at  which  a  small  number  of  the  wealthier 
parents  had  their  sons  and  daughters  ;  and  although  they 
had  succeeded  in  placing  them  on  a  most  excellent  footing, 
they  had  never  thought  how  easily  they  might  confer  equal 
benefits  on  a  far  more  numerous  and  more  needy  class. 
They  had  never  considered  how  important  it  is  to  the  moral 
character  of  children,  as  well  as  to  their  progress  in  know- 


IICUT  RIVER. 

and  allowed  the  teacher  an' 
ig  complaint  of  the  total  in- 
the  school,  the  neglect  and 
ndemned,  by  universal  con- 
uciion  of  the  young ;  the 
■  education  are  underrated, 
e  community,  and  the  innu- 
of  things  befall  the  children, 

in  old  Connecticut,  with  her 
devotion  of  her  fathers  and 
ire  and  general  intelligence, 
d  abroad,  and  the  reputation 
in,  there  can  be  a  school  like 
lowever,  I  Irarnt  that  there 
superior  to  it.  And  why  is 
th  individuals  of  the  highest 
ilace,  men  of  education,  and 
ad,  I  doubt  not,  made  public 
niversal  diffusion  of  know- 

I  could  give  me  any  real  in- 
die schools.  They  thought 
s  to  society,  or  rather  the 
and  believed  they  required 
lent.  But  what  were  their 
by  what  means  they  might 
her  to  know  nor  greatly  to 
id  not  any  certain  knowledge 
•ir  location,  number  of  pupils, 
ho  had  attended  to  instruction 
le  time  to  the  higher  schools 

II  number  of  the  wealthier 
ughters  ;  and  although  they 
on  a  most  excellent  footing, 
isily  they  might  confer  equal 
ous  and  more  needy  class, 
v  important  it  is  to  the  moral 
IS  to  their  progress  in  know- 


SCENERY. 


125 


ledge,  tha^  they  should  be  kept  constantly  and  agreeably 

teX  ;:.?'"",'■  "  '"Y-  '-^"^  '"'^'"  be^ffordedT  r 
if  a  fl  "t    ''''"'  '"'^  '"«trurtion,  by  the  introduction 

whether  a  man  "^'■"''"''"''•.  '^^'^  ^'"^  "^^^^  '"1"'-d 
wou  d  nof  J  ^:  T  ,7"'""""""  f"'"-.  or  '^  black  board 
would  not  be  a  valuable  acquisition,  and  afford  onporlunities 
to  vary  agreeably  the  dry  routine  of  the  day,  in  wh  h  he 
only  changes  often  are  from  doing  little  to  doing    mhinT 

uinerent  kinds  of  wood  or  stone,  or  a  few  shells  or  leaves 
ni.ght  be  occasionally  exhibited  with  advantl  and  rde 
the  foundation  of  a  useful  lecture  of  ten  miSes  Thev 
had  never  reflected  how  a  frequent  visit  from  a  cle.gyman^ 

teachers  and  pupils  ;  or  how  a  meeting  of  teachers '  natron 

^dge  in  public  estimation  by  raising  its  ministers,  the  com- 
mon  schooL-masters.     I  found  a  few  persons  who  seemTd 

Tanc^r;  '•'''  ".'  "'"^'  ^^''^"  '''^'  measuresTn  one 
branch  of  this  subject :  they  were  ladies. 

variety  from'^j;  "^  ^«""«^;'.'^"'  R-er  presents  a  constant 
variety  from  the  mtermmgling  and  alternations  of  its  fevr 

E.  ;1  T'T';-  ^.''''^  '''^  "'^  ''""'«  '"«^''o^«  of  differs 
and  ,n  some  places  form  two  or  three  successive  levels  of 
beds  of  lakes  successively  drained  ;  the  uplands  and  the 

tl  hi,h"fl"T'"';  .  '^'  '""'^^^  '''"''  -^  «--flown  by 
e  high  floods  of  the  spring  and  autumn,  which  conveil 
J  m  again  into  lakes,  and  leave  a  rich  deposite,  though 
they  sometimes  destroy  extensive  crops.  The  second 
meadows  or  the  uplands  then  become 'the  sfil'es,  or  in 
some  cases  islands  ;  and  boats  often  float  where,  dur  ng  the 

among    the  hay   or  corn-fields.      The    higher  levels    are 

sometimes  channelled  by  rills  of  water,  wh  ch  have  deeply 

otched  liieir  edges  in  the  course  of  time,  and  left  pnS 

ve";   t'  ;L"rt  "^'".,"'  ^'^""^''^  fortresses.  liLt 
over  the   head  of  the  traveller  on  the   meadows   below, 


^ 


f 


126 


ROVTE  UP  CONNECTICUT  RITBR. 


and  presenting  a  pleasing  variety  of  foliage  and  crops. 
The  light  at  morning  and  evening,  the  winter's  snow,  the 
verdure  of  summer,  and  the  hues  of  autumn,  add  their  innu- 
merable changes,  so  that  some  of  the  pleasantest  of  the 
scenes  may  be  said  to  be  hardly  the  same  in  appearance  at 
any  two  visits.  The  trees  of  the  groves,  which  are  thinly 
scattered  over  the  lower  levels,  are  generally  of  various  de- 
ciduous species,  and  afford  a  rich  iniermixlure  of  hues  in 
aulumn ;  thus  the  early  frosts  often  tinge  the  course  of  the 
stream  with  yellow  and  red,  while  the  uplands  are  still 
covered  with  deep  green.  The  young  crops,  presenting 
their  countless  rows  over  the  level  surface  of  the  meadows 
in  the  sloping  light,  offered  me  one  of  the  richest  scenes  of 
the  kind  I  ever  witnessed,  as  I  pursued  my  way  alone  to- 
wards Deerfield. 

To  one  familiar  with  the  history  of  this  part  of  the  coun- 
try, the  journey  up  Connecticut  River  is  doubly  interesting ; 
and,  during  my  short  stay  at  Deerfield,  I  was  more  occupied 
with  recollections  of  the  past  than  elsewhere.  This  is  one 
of  the  old  settlements,  though  but  of  the  second  epoch,  and 
retains  more  traditions  of  early  events  than  any  other  I  am 
acquainted  with.  When  the  English  from  Massachusetts  Bay 
occupied  Saybrook  Fort,  at  the  mouth  of  the  river,  in  1635, 
and  began  the  settlement  of  Wethersfield,  Hartford,  and 
"Windsor,  in  the  following  years,  litiic  was  known  of  the 
stream  above,  except  that  the  Indians  reported  that  they  used 
it  in  their  canoe  navigation  to  Canada,  by  making  a  portage 
between  Onion  River  and  the  waters  of  Lake  Champlain. 
Northampton,  Hadley,  and  Greenfield  were  early  settled ; 
and  in  1666  were  greatly  harassed  by  the  Indians  in 
Philip's  war.  In  the  meadow,  which  I  passed  through 
in  approaching  this  pleasant  village,  ambushes  have  been 
repeatedly  laid  by  the  wily  enemy  in  former  times,  desperate 
contests  have  occurred,  and  not  a  little  blood  has  been  shed. 
At  a  visit  to  the  place  several  years  ago,  I  examined  the  old 
house,  the  only  one  which  now  remains  of  those  erected  at 
the  first  settlement,  or  previously  to  1704  ;  the  others,  ex- 
cept one  besides,  having  been  taken  and  burnt.  The  inhabit- 
ants of  this  house  defended  it  a  long  time^  until  the  savages. 


sc 

eq 

ar 

is( 

Fc 

wh 

fro 

loa 

der 

dati 

enc 

I 

the 

Phil 

poin 

aroi 

seen 

lerru 

ilsell 

low, 

forty 

suppj 

heedl 

the  c; 

driver 

night 


ECTICVT  RITER. 

ariety  of  foliage  and  crops, 
ening,  the  winter's  snow,  the 
ics  of  autumn,  add  their  innu- 
tie  of  the  pleasiinteat  of  the 
ly  the  same  in  appearance  at 
the  groves,  which  are  thinly 
I,  are  generally  of  various  de- 
rich  iniermixlure  of  hues  in 
often  tinge  the  course  of  the 
while  the  uplands  are  still 
"he  young  crops,  presenting 
evel  surfticc  of  the  meadows 
;  one  of  the  richest  scenes  of 
I  pursued  my  way  alone  to- 

story  of  this  part  of  the  coun- 
it  River  is  doubly  interesting ; 
eerfield,  I  was  more  occupied 
than  etsewhere.  This  is  one 
but  of  the  second  epoch,  and 
y  events  than  any  other  I  am 
iglishfrom  Massachusetts  Bay 
e  mouth  of  the  river,  in  1635, 

Welhersfield,  Hartford,  and 
Bars,  litiic  was  known  of  the 
[ndians  reported  that  they  used 
Canada,  by  making  a  portage 
;  waters  of  Lake  Champlain. 
Ircenfield  were  early  settled  ; 
harassed  by  the  Indians  in 
ow,  which  I  passed  through 
village,  ambushes  have  been 
!my  in  former  times,  desperate 
}t  a  little  blood  has  been  shed, 
years  ago,  I  examined  the  old 
w  remains  of  those  erected  at 
>usly  to  1704  ;  the  others,  ex- 
taken  and  burnt.   The  inhabit- 

a  long  time^  until  the  savages. 


INDIAN  BATTLE. 

the  house  on  some'acco  ,  t, "ok  ,^'  ^''°  havn,g  slept  i„ 
•"the  midst  of  the  %ht,  honint  '""''.{'"^'"nity  to  leave  it 
hole  cut  through  the  f  on  T  ^  u  ^"''  '"'«  P^'^"^^'  The 
•omahauks  is  Stil,  i:  b"  c„Ts  t'ell'"  '"'''"'^  ^'"'  "-i' 
"'«de  by  bullets  which  they  fir  J^""'' T'' °'' '''^ '^»'«» 
"ght  and  left  at  hazard      oL  of   h     "  "''  '"'''"«  °"  »he 

-;^  o^a^.nale,  and  killed  he;?::  Ctt^tiSt: 

«P""gs,  which  have  trickled  /h?"  *;'''•  ^^^'''  «>•  ^ur 
«eent,  appear  to  have  cut  as  m'  ^^  ''"^"  "'«  «'«^P  de- 
equal  distances,  i„  thence  oSl7 ?"""^'«'  »'  "'"'X 
are  thus  left,  which  from  some  poinfj'  ?"'^'-^'  P'^J^cion; 
isolated   eminences.      One  of  fk  ^  "'^^  appear  like 

Fort,  I  ascended  with  a^  es^eeme'd^- "1' r'  '"^'^'oh.^k 
who  pomted  out  many  spots  wShh^T  '^°'"  ^'"^  ^'"«g«. 
from  their  connexion  wilh  eiHv  I  '"'"■^''  '"  ""X  •'yes 

•earned,  that  the  spot  on  wh.Vh  L  sT'l'-  ^'"^  '""'  ^  "'^o 
derived  its  name  from  having  hi'  T  ! ^^Ported  to  have 
date,  by  the  Mohawks,  who^are  kn^'"^"!'  ''  ^"  ""-^^"^i" 
encroachments  on  the  Indian,  of  pl  '''  '"^''^  ^rea' 

^  From  Deerfield  I  pursued  .h/  ^°"""'="e"t  R'ver. 
Je  Co„,,,,i,„     the'scene  o    th  °fi    ?  ''"'"''''  ^«"«' on 
Phthp's  power.    The  river  ,11 ''"'^  '''"'^'•°^  ^^^'"g 
point,  with  a  tranquil  surfac^n  1  n    ^^'"^  '^"^^^^  '•°"«d  « 
« round  hill  of  sand,  with  a  na'ro/r""^  ''  "■"  ^■'''  "f 
«eems  toone  descending  i^cu  rent  toT  °"  '^'  '^^''' 
erruption  to  a  long  mounta  no.w?         ^^  ""  ^"''""t  in- 
;'«elf  running  norfh  and   oh     "  ^f '  """'^'^  ''ere  presents 
ow,  however,  it  makes  a  nlrn     i  \^""'er  of  a  mile  be- 
forty  feet,  down  whid.  befoJerd  "'"  '"'^^"'  °^  ««>«« 
l^PP^y  of  a  canal  of  a  few  ^iles        ""u-  '''''"^  ^'^  '^e 
eedlessly  went  to  cer..inl,ZllP' rl^''  '^^'^^^'""^ 

fehXlr^ira--^^^^^ 
"'^^-f.asti„,,eywer;^---'-t7^ 


128 


nOITTE  tJP  CONNECTICUT  RIVER. 


volunteers  from  the  towns,  principally  iVoni  Northampton, 
ami  mimy  oflhom  (iestroycd.  (ireat  miabers,  jumping  into 
their  ciinops  without  tiieir  piidilles,  went  over  the  falls. 
Some  of  the  assailaniss,  however,  were  killed,  prineipally  in 
the  retreat,  during  which  they  were  hard  pressed  hy  the 
rallying  savages.  The  bones  of  a  man  were  found  a  few 
years  ago,  in  a  secluded  spot  among  the  rocks  below  the 
falls,  wUh  the  remains  of  a  musket,  and  a  number  of  silver 
coins  of  a  period  not  later  dian  the  dale  of  this  battle  :  were 
doubtless  the  remains  of  some  soldier  engaged  in  it. 

Having  crossed  the  ferry  to  the  foot  of  the  hill,  I  ex- 
amined the  situation  of  the  fort,  deserted  so  long,  picked 
up  a  few  arrow-heads  of  stone,  and  bones,  took  many  fine 
glimpses  and  several  sketches  near  the  falls,  and  mounting 
my  horse,  proceeded  by  an  unfrequented  route  to  Bernards- 
ton,  where  I  proposed  to  spend  the  night.  The  landlord 
seemed  ohliging ;  and  while  my  horse  was  receiving  the  at- 
tentions of  his  boy,  I  took  my  seat  by  a  fire.  1  had  just 
begun  to  feel  impatient  at  not  seeing  any  preparations 
making  for  my  tea-table,  when  he  came  to  invite  me  into  an 
interior  room,  if  I  chose  to  sit  by  the  family  fireside.  I 
cheerfully  assented,  and  spent  the  remainder  of  the  evening 
(for  it  was  late  when  I  arrived)  in  a  neat  little  apartment, 
in  pleasant  conversation. 

Some  of  the  older  inhabitants  of  this  part  of  the  country 
have  a  little  knowledge  of  the  early  condition  of  the  coun- 
try; though  the  changes  have  been  so  great,  and  so  many 
generations  have  dwelt  here  in  undisturbed  security,  that  it 
is  difficult  to  imagine  what  were  the  trials  and  difficulties 
of  early  times. 

"  Our  meadows  now  are  cheerful  all, 
Our  rivers  flow  in  light : 
But  cedars  wavM  their  branches  tail 
As  round  her  clos'd  the  night. 

"  The  path  which  seeks  the  lov'd  abode 
You  knew  in  childhood  sweet, 
Perchance,  was  that  the  captive  trod, 
Mark'd  by  the  panther's  feel." 


r 
e 

a 

I; 

0 

ii 

0 

a 
fc 

hi 

C( 

lo 
P' 


ICTICXJT  RIVER. 

rinripally  iVoni  Nortlianiplon, 
(Jrcat  iHiabrrs,  jumping  into 
;i(lillcs,   went   over  tlic   falls, 
er,  were  killed,  principally  in 
y  were  liaril  press;ul  hy  tlic 
1  of  a  man  were  found  a  few 
,  among  ilie  rocks  below  the 
uskel,  and  a  number  of  silver 
n  the  dale  of  this  battle  :  were 
e  soldier  engaged  in  it. 
to  the  foot  of  the  hill,  I  ex- 
fort,  deserted  so  long,  picked 
le,  and  bones,  took  many  fine 
s  near  the  falls,  and  mounting 
iifrequenled  route  to  Bernards- 
md  the  night.     The  landlord 
ny  horse  was  receiving  the  at- 
my  seal  by  a  fire.     1  had  just 
not  seeing   any  preparations 
n  he  came  to  invite  me  into  an 
sit  by  the  family  fireside.     I 
t  the  remainder  of  the  evening 
;d)  in  a  neat  hltlc  apartment, 

nts  of  this  part  of  the  country 
lie  early  condition  of  the  coun- 
ve  been  so  great,  and  so  many 
in  undisturbed  security,  that  it 
vcre  the  trials  and  difficulties 


vr  are  cheerful  all, 
in  light : 

their  branches  tail 
osM  the  night. 

seeks  the  inv'd  abode 
lildhood  sweet, 
liat  the  cHptive  trod, 
lanlhcr's  feel." 


120 


CHAPTER  XVir. 


I 


? 


I 


Copies  of  ancient  LrtterH,  illustrating  something  of  the  State  of    ,  y» 

1  lung,  .n  tlus  part  of  the  Country  early  in  thf  last  Century.        '  I' 

I  HAVR  in  my  possession  some  old  papers,  from  a  family 
long  resulont  in  one  of  the  older  settlements  on  Co.n.er«^ 
River,  wh.ch  afford  hvely  evidences  of  the  state  of  the  coun- 

the  past  hundred  years  and  more.    A  few  extracts  will  here 

m  r^n  m"'  V^t'  ^^r''!''^"'""  "''^"^''  "^  "^«-V  '-'"  a"y  interest 
in  rm  tiers  of  this  ktnd.  Our  ancestors  early  made  up  their 
ni  nd    on  certa.n  .mportant  subjects,  and  went  immediately 

wl  !E:^?  "T''-  J^'^y'^''^  ""'  -"«fy  themselves 
with  talking  phtlosoph.cally,  or  forming  theoretical  cobweb., 
as  80  many  European  writers  have  done,  merely  for  the 
amusement  of  a  pleasant  day.  Instead  of  waiting^  till  he 
n  neteenih  century,  to  ask  whether  the  times,  orfhe  spiri! 
of  the  age,  or  the  march  of  mind,  as  the  fashionable  phrases 
are,  did  not  demand  the  mstruclion  of  all  classes,  they  be- 
gan  before  the  middle  of  the  seventeenth,  to  require  it  by 
law.  And  what  has  been  the  result?  While,  in  the  south 
01  burope,  Ignorance  is  teaching  at  this  day  that  knowledge 

nf  h!  il^     Y  '"  V' '  '^'  ^''''''  '"''«»'''''»'  °f  this  part 
of  the  Union  has  the  noble  blood  of  knowledge  in  his  veins, 
and  can  trace  it  through  a  line  of  ancestors  uninterrupted 
for  one  or  two  centuries.     With  this  come  the  habits  of 
«|onduct  and  of  thought,  which  are  cherished  and  cultivated 
by  the  influences  of  a  virtuous  and  intelligent  society;  and 
hence  arise  those  valuable  traits  of  character  which  are 
commonly  attributed  to  this  people :  traits  which  cannot  be 
looked  for  under  other  circumstances,  and  which  cannot  be 
produced  by  other  causes. 
First  comes  a  plan  of  a  fort,  which  was  ordered  to  be 

12 


130 


ROUTE  UP  CONNECTICUT  RIVKR. 


built  on  the  river's  bank,  with  the  following  directions,  ac- 
compiinii'd  Willi  ii  lettt-r  dated — 

"The  (i){urp  of  the  fort  to  be  built  in  the  Long  Meadow, 
above  Norlhfield,  together  with  the  inner  building. 

»  The  box  a  to  bo  placed  easiwardly  over  the  river  bank  ; 
the  passage  into  the  mounts  to  he  from  the  lower  rooms, 
through  the  door  of  the  mount,  e\cv\n  that  at  the  norwest 
angle  to  be  from  the  chamber  through  the  side  of  the  mount. 
The  eastwardly  box  to  be  elevated  so  as  to  see  from  thence 
over  the  others.  The  timbers  to  be  bullet  proof.  The 
fort  to  be  twelve  or  fourteen  feet  high.  The  timber  to  lay 
the  chamber-floor  on  to  be  so  high  that  a  tall  man  may  walk 
upright  under  them.  The  buildings  within  twelve  or  four- 
teen foot  wide. 

••  The  inner  wall,  as  well  as  the  fort  and  mounts,  to  be 
made  of  hewed  timber.  The  housing  to  be  built  linto-wise ; 
the  roof  descending  from  the  top  of  the  fort.  The  outward 
parts  of  the  mounts  to  be  supported  by  timbers,  laid  four  or 
five  feel  beyond  the  corness  of  the  fort,  not  to  be  cut  at  the 
laying.  The  lower  timber  to  be  heightened  by  a  short 
piece,  and  the  floor  of  the  mounts  to  be  level  with  the 
highest  timber.  The  end  of  the  floor-pieces  to  go  under  the 
mount  pieces.  It  will  be  best  to  fell  the  timber  in  the  old 
of  the  moon.  One  of  the  first  services  will  be  to  cut  and 
dry  good  limber  for  fire-wood." 

"  Capt. 

"  We  have  sent  Henrick  and  three  men  and  two  squas. 

"The  three  men's  names  are  Eraza,  Cossaump,  and 
Joseph,  whome  you  must  take  into  the  fort,  and  release  of 
the  English  soldiery  four  of  your  Englishmen,  viz.  John 
King  to  be  one  of  the  three  men  most  ineffective,  exceept 
the  hired  men,  as  I  wrote  to  you  in  my  former  letter — and 
them  you  release  must  leave  their  guns  for  to  supply  the 
Indians,  and  we  shall  see  them  returned,  or  a  reasonable 
price  for  them.  And  King  must  leave  his  gun  as  others  do 
upon  the  same  terms.  This  you  must  be  carefull  to  take, 
and  keep  an  exact  account  of  the  day  of  their  release,  and 
of  the  entry  of  the  Indians,  and  so  of  more  Indians  that 


1 
ii 
e 
c 

81 
Ol 

hi 
se 


spi 
spc 
res 
to  I 

for 

<i 

the 

like 

the 

now 

feret 

1  pn 
« 

char 
to  be 
good 


(CUT  RIVER. 

!  following  directions,  ac- 

nill  in  the  Long  Meadow, 
e  inner  building, 
rardiy  over  the  river  bank  ; 
le  from  the  lower  rooms, 
ceept  that  at  tlie  norwest 
)ugli  the  side  of  the  mount. 
1  so  as  to  see  from  thence 
to  be  bullet  proof.     The 
high.     The  timber  to  lay 
h  that  a  tall  man  may  walk 
ings  within  twelve  or  four- 
he  fort  and  mounts,  to  be 
sing  to  be  built  linto-wise ; 
of  the  fort.     The  outward 
ted  by  limbers,  laid  four  or 
le  fort,  not  to  be  cut  at  the 
be  heightened  by  a  short 
lints  to  be  level  with  the 
floor-pieces  to  go  under  the 
3  fell  the  timber  in  the  old 
services  will  be  to  cut  and 


three  men  and  two  squas. 
ire  Eraza,  Cossaump,  and 
nto  the  fort,  and  release  of 
our  Englishmen,  viz.  John 
en  most  ineffective,  exceept 
1  in  my  former  letter — and 
leir  guns  for  to  supply  the 
1  returned,  or  a  reasonable 
t  leave  his  gun  as  others  do 
lu  must  be  carefuU  to  take, 
lie  day  of  their  release,  and 
,d  so  of  more  Indians  that 


OtD  LETTERS. 


131 


and  tradeinV  betwixt  /.fpLtr'  '''/"  "'^'«  ^'  "«  '"'^inj 

in  the  fort  nor  o     ofT  bm  all   o  l'*'"'''?'^''  '""""«?«'  "-^ 
-till  and  orderiyrthe   i n,  h  *"  '*""  I'''"^^^'«' ^nd  be 

lish  by  comand      I  win     .        ^  P^^'*""'""".  and  ,he  Eng- 

ing  its  erection.     It  is  in8ert.-H  hi    .'     l^  '"""''  suceeed- 
entenained  by  many  n    S  1    ?  ''•  '''"*"  "'^'  '^'  ^'^ws 

couragementrmalLt  es  arn;;t'^fT^  1  "'^  •"- 
No  doubt  it  will  amuse  some  of  mv  f  ?  '""'^'/"  ^'''*'- 
suggestions  thrown  out  mo^e  than  «  "  '°  '^"''  '"'^ 

officer  in  garrison,  in  a  sri  V„  "  ""'"""y  ''S^o,  by  a„ 
hending  auaeks  f/om  ,„!  /'T nd' ^T'  "'''^  ^^P™" 
seem,  to  occupy  a  little  leisr  int  S'^i  Z^J^^ 

"Sir,  '*«'«**•*•*,  Jan.  9,  1724.6. 

-pm  ^n; ro'ts'TpoTTh  '"''"'"^  "^  "^  ^''^"'^^  I  had  ever 
specting^heirmeTum  '  ZT^l^^l  ^'  T  «'^^''"'  "' 
restored  to  their  original  and  r  Ih  i  "'"^  ""«'''  '"' 
to  show  myself  to  you  on  tht  "^  '  '''•'""  "  ^  "'^^^ 

for  your  u.fdoubted  Lndour  tolir"''"^  '""''  "^"  "  "«' 

likely  expe'dient;  and  rple  ent  tha  '  1:7,' '  '^  ^  ^"^ 
the  tax  on  alt  imported  linZ!^  ..!''''  P™P"«''  '^^^ 
now,  and  on  all  other  imZ?^  ?''^  ''"  '^'^"'''^  '''^^' ''  « 
fered  to  lay  a  tax  upon  TnX  ^•^°'^^(""»'  ^«  -"ay  be  suf- 
I  propose  are        ^     '      '^^'  proportion.    The  advantages 

chlrg;  o^^heXlHid  tt  r  V"  '^'P  '°  ''^'  ^'^ 
to  bear  it ;  for  it  is  thTv  .Sh     i   ^  ''"  P""'°"'  ™°»'  ""e 

good*  tha't  drawU'  h'e  effettT'orth-""^'""'™''""^'^ 

enects  ol  this  country.     Aad  2. 


I 


in 


ROUTR  VP  CONNKCTK  TT  RIVKH. 


T 


This  would  tend  lo  siippross  the  import  anil  also  the  cxtravs- 
giinri'  and  iihp  of  Mich  commodilii-i.     And  ',1.  Tliis  wotdd 
tend  10  promote  and  cncoiiraRc  ilio«c  mamiliicloriei  which 
wouhl  produce  the  moHt  needful  commodities  among  o\ir- 
BelveH.     Our  (rovernm'l  I  know  have  done  considerable  to 
encourage  the;  rai«ini?  of  hemp,  llie  makeing  of  duck,  gooil 
linnen-cloth,  A;c.     And  if  iliey  liad  at  the  same  time  ohiig'd 
Buch  commodities  and  many  others  to  pay  custom  (when 
imported)  tiiat  do  not,  it  woidd  have  done  well.    'I'his  would 
not  oidy  help  to  pay  our  charge,  but  it  would  also  greatly 
encourage  the  making  of  such  things  in  this  country— for 
what  is  made  here  as  good  as  that  which  is  imported  would 
command  as  much  as  that,  when  the  merch't  has  paid  the 
duty  and  advanced  his  3,')0  p.  cent,  upon  it.    And  most  cer- 
tainly when  any  commodity  is  under  such  circumstance* 
that  two  men  and  a  govc'mt  get  in  their  several  capacities 
a  living  by  it,  another  man  yt.  can  procure  the  same  rom- 
modity  without  the  two  lattr.  encumbrances  must  be  greatly 
inclined  to  do  it. 

"  If  your  patience  lasts,  I  would  entertain  you  with  one 
blunder  more,  which  is— I  should  think  it  very  proper, 
when  the  charge  is  so  great,  that  the  country  tax  should  be 
in  proportion ;  this  has  been  omitted  so  long  that  1  think  it 
high  time  to  begin  ;  for  tl)is  also  would  greatly  tend  to  pre- 
vent the  passing  of  such  vast  quantities  of  bills  among  us, 
which  are  now  (1  suppose  purely  by  their  multiplicity)  be- 
come but  just  half  so  good  as  our  former  mony.  It's  very 
strange  if  the  wages  of  such  as  go  to  warr  can't  be  so  pro- 
portioned to  other  mens'  advantages  as  that  20,  30,  or  possi- 
bly the  proportion  may  be  60  or  100  that  stay  at  home  can't 
maintain  one  to  go  to  warr  and  pay  him  down.  I  am  sen- 
sible it  would  be  dangerous  at  once  to  make  an  act  that 
should  be  so  extensive  as  to  make  it  appear  by  what  time 
the  whole  of  the  bills  now  extant  should  be  brought  in,  for 
by  that,  rich  foreseeing  men  will  monopolize  their  coffers 
full,  and  thereby  extort  upon  poor  people  that  must  pay 
their  rates.  Therefore,  let  us  now  begin  to  pay  every  year's 
tax  within  the  year,  and  involve  ourselves  no  farther,  for 
we  have  as  many  bills  out  now  as  all  the  country  can  find 


( 
I 
n 

0 

h 

ih 
& 


riC.-|;T  RIVKR. 

mporl  anil  also  the  cxtravit- 
itk'i.  And  U.  Tliis  woiiUl 
iliouc  inamiriicloriei  whirh 
I  commodiiit's  anionR  o\ir- 
have  (lone  I'Dnsidcrablf  to 
the  mnkc'ing  of  duck,  j?ood 
ad  at  the  s.inu;  time  ohlif^'d 
tiers  to  pay  custom  (when 
ave  done  well.  This  would 
e,  but  it  would  also  greatly 

things  in  this  country — for 
lat  which  is  imported  would 
1  the  merch'l  has  paid  the 
;nt.  upon  it.    And  most  cer- 

under  such  circumstances 
,  in  their  several  capacities 
an  procure  the  same  rom- 
lumbrances  must  be  greatly 

ould  entertain  you  with  one 
Duld  think  it  very  proper, 
It  the  country  tax  should  be 
nitted  so  long  that  I  think  it 
J  would  greatly  lend  to  pre- 
rjuantities  of  bills  among  us, 
!ly  by  their  multiplicity)  be- 
(ur  former  mony.     It's  very 

go  to  warr  can't  be  so  pro- 
rtges  as  that  20,  30,  or  possi- 
r  100  that  slay  at  home  can't 
pay  him  down.     I  am  sen- 

once  to  make  an  act  that 
lake  it  appear  by  what  time 
int  should  be  brought  in,  for 
ill  monopolize  their  coffers 
poor  people  that  must  pay 
jw  begin  to  pay  every  year's 
ve  ourselves  no  farther,  for 
1  as  all  the  country  can  find 


OLO  LCTTKRI. 


139 


out  h^  to  call  in  and  no.  ruin,  considerable  par.  of  th. 

should  be  cYactTy  ■  ny'rdt'Hr''/'^'''''  '"»"--•  o^i. 
discharg'd  by  anv  ,.f  .K^  ^  ""  what«„ever  might  be 

or  price's      I      o^^  :Mr:7r '"?."'  — "'"'-te. 
»alary.man  a  nerll"  "''J'     '       '"'    '"  *"  '"  "'"'"^^  ''^"y 

country,  l„u  by  hirnsri    o    „  I.         i"""'  '•"'"O'-'an  in  this 
dispose  of  his  s  irv  1  7"  *'"'"'*  """•*'  "'»'•«  'h.n  to 

business  on  •;';SoTt:,T  ider";';7%"-'^-  •"• 

more  likely  to  be  i  tr.  I     '  ','"^'"«^*'  '  """k,  that  man  is 
onife,  anL^us   ti   iy":d'"  """^"'' ""'  ^ """ 

''-^.n.asan.hos^:,:::;^:^^^^^^^ 

»'.at  ki:;  :'.:it;i':^t':?'"  ^-'^^^^^^^  -ny  .„ 

&c.,  Ac."  ^  ^  "  "  ""P«««'We  it  should  be  valuable, 

Letter  from  a  Lady. 
"  Dear  M.  '°"°"'  ""•  ^^'^  °^  '*•'>.,  J76* 

«m  able,  though  noJT,  tm  i  /°  m  T"^"  '"  ^«"  »"  I 
closely  eonfinfd  lo  th^  iTm  L^J  ^''T '^  ?«  ^^"^  »«•  ^ein, 
been  almost  three  weLcolfdh  '"^'''  ^^"^  '  »•"« 
ness.  which  brought  r^e  near  t.L^h  "  ^7''"  ^'  "'"  «'°k- 
derful  forbearancf  of  cl3  1  JiS'  .?™?''  ""«  """" 
my  strength  recover  nLan,rml         ^^"^'^ened  yet  farther, 

-eivi./good  ye7';:SoZrz'7jr,  t:,^-?  -«« 

sible  of  my  privileges  uLr^t.fir  '^"'^'"  '"sen- 

p.'.o„ had  mo,.";:!'- J/ST"" *h" "'r * 


134 


ROUTE  VV  CONNECTICtTT  RIVER. 


the  just  expectations  of  God  and  men !  Su.v'.y  you  will  be 
constrained  to  pour  out  your  soul  before  God  in  my  behalf, 
'•  I  am  sorry  you  should  think  it  wou'd  be  a  trouble  to 
procure  the  few  things  you  sent  for— so  far  from  it,  I  ac- 
count it  a  pleasure ;  and  think  myself  more  obliged  to  you 
for  employing  me  thai,  you  are  to  me  for  sending  them. 
The  respect  you  show  to  the  memory  of  my  dear  and 
never-to-be-forgoilen  sister,  I  return  my  grateful  thanks  for. 
Tiie  removal  of  so  great  a  part  of  my  happiness  renders 
this  world  more  troublesome,  and  the  remaining  comforts 
of  life  more  insipid.    1  have  been  more  composed  since  my 

dear  Mrs. was  here  than  before— her  company  was 

of  singular  use  to  me,  as  she  is  now  the  most  intimate  friend 
I  have  on  earth.  I  much  question  whether  I  shall  ever  see 
her  again,  as  she  has  so  many  friends  to  visit,  and  I  can  see 
no  prospect  that  I  shall  ever  go  so  far  from  home.  I  have 
not  heard  from  her  since  December,  which  seems  an  age. 

"  The  account  you  give  of  the  burning  of  the  Orphan 
House,  I  am  apt  to  think,  is  a  false  report,  as  we  have  never 
heard  a  syllable  of  it ;  and  it  looks  most  likely  that  we 
shou'd  have  heard  of  it  by  the  post. 

"  Nothing  very  remarkable  occurs  to  my  mind  at  present. 
It  is   a   time   of  general   health.      Pray  when  you   see 

Miss ,  offer  my  respectful  compliments  to  her. 

"  Company  coming  in  obliges  me  to  close,  with  the  offer 
of  my  service  whenever  you  have  occasion  for  it,  with  the 
assurance  of  my  sincere  wishes  for.your  prosperity,  and  with 
my  humble  service  to  the  good  Col.,  hi*  lady,  Mrs.  — — , 
and  yourself,  in  which  my  mother  joins  (my  father  being 

absent). 

« I  am,  Dr.  M , 

"  Your  most  humble  servant." 


Pray  favour  me  with  a  line  ) 
as  often  as  you  can.       ^ 


ricrx  RivKR. 

il  men !     Su.i  '.y  you  will  be 
j1  before  God  in  my  behalf, 
nk  it  wou'd  be  a  trouble  to 
nt  for — so  far  from  it,  I  ac- 
myself  more  obliged  to  you 
re  to  me  for  sending  tliem. 
B  memory  of  my  dear  and 
Hum  my  grateful  thanks  for. 
irt  of  my  happiness  renders 
and  the  remaining  comforts 
en  more  composed  since  my 
n  before — lier  company  was 
i  now  the  most  intimate  friend 
ition  whether  I  shall  ever  see 
friends  to  visit,  and  I  can  see 
[0  so  far  from  home.     I  have 
jmber,  which  seems  an  age. 
f  the  burning  of  the  Orphan 
'alse  report,  as  we  have  never 
it  looks  most  likely  that  we 
post. 

occurs  to  my  mind  at  present, 
■alth.  Pray  when  you  see 
il  compliments  to  her. 
res  me  to  close,  with  the  offer 
have  occasion  for  it,  with  the 
s  for  .your  prosperity,  and  with 

lod  Col.,  hi6  lady,  Mrs. , 

nother  joins  (my  father  being 

Or.  M , 


^our  most  humble  servant." 


135 


CHAPTER  xvirr. 

comprehension  of  ,he  poliue,,  sy..en,  "S  'n  X  ^L' 
render  tlie  operauons  of  socieiy  inlellijible      Fv.,„  T 
seems  a.  once  free  and  depended     pSIj  „"1 '""« 
one  su><e  affec,  .hose  in  a  neighbour LoneaXr  ^f 

causes  a  constant  commotion  on  the  routes  an,  n„i  i 
tlie  circulation  to  fever  hast*.      Th  .  '         1"'ckens 

araZleTJi^CXK:';^^^^ 

of  his  own  state,  county,  and  perhaps  town,  of  Sh  ch  «  fe, 
low-traveller  may  sometimes  obti  som^  knowled/c  hJ 
directmg  his  conversation  that  way      If  von  ur.T      ■    ^ 
.UK  .he.  already  „  a„me  ..enrfhe  wiira"n.re  ^1: 

soma,  sensible  men,  were  greaUy'Jatdt^rS 


136 


ROUTE  tip  CONNECTICUT  RIVER. 


ners  and  conversation  of  a  person  of  a  different  character 
on  his  travels. 

There  was  a  talkative  young  man  in  the  stage-coach, 
who  soon  avowed  himself,  by  word  of  mouth,  as  the  editor 
of  a  village  newspaper,  called  the  Banner  of  Principle,  or 
the  Disinterested  Patriot,  or  some  other  great  name.  His 
forward  manners  and  flippant  speech  had  got  the  start  of 
this  avowal,  and  already  proclaimed  him  an  uneducated, 
conceited  youth,  who  had  been  exceedingly  flattered  some- 
where, by  somebody,  not  very  long  ago,  as  an  extraordinary 
wit.  He  was  one  of  those  persons  whom  to  see  is  to  pity, 
if  you  have  any  benevolence  left  after  the  sufferings  you 
endure  in  his  company.  He  had  set  out  in  life  wrong,  and 
was  travelling  rapidly  a  road  which  he  must  inevitably  track 
back.  He  was  living  and  breathing  on  mistake:  neither 
he,  nor  the  world,  nor  their  opinion  of  him,  nor  his  import- 
ance to  them  was  such  as  he  supposed.  His  pretended 
friends  were  attached  only  to  themselves,  and  really  exer- 
cised refined  selfishness  in  enduring  his  society  in  order  to 
gain  the  slight  advantage  of  using  him  as  a  tool. 

He  had  the  misfortune  to  live  in  the  neighbourhood  of 
an  aspiring  politician ;  and  having  abundance  of  self-con- 
ceit, some  smartness,  and  an  acquaintance  with  the  lower 
classes  of  society,  he  thought  his  apparent  currency  every- 
where was  owing  to  his  own  talents.  "When,  therefore,  the 
editorship  of  a  newspaper  was  oflered  to  him,  he  supposed 
the  station  was  but  the  meed  of  his  merit ;  and  when  I  saw 
him  he  was  already  in  full  business  on  such  slender  capital. 
He  had  not  the  penetration  to  perceive,  nor  the  humility  to 
suspect,  any  connexion  between  the  friendly  calls  of  Squire 
Undertow,  his  confidence  in  conversing  with  him  on  matters 
of  state,  the  praise  of  his  first  essays,  and  the  whisper  that 
he  was  the  best  man  in  the  country  to  conduct  a  paper 
which  the  friends  of  principle  were  about  to  establish ;  so 
he  was  soon  set  up,  like  a  locomotive  on  a  railroad,  and  ran 
rapidly  and  smoothly  along  the  track  which  he  was  not  per- 
mitted to  leave,  fancying  that  while  he  out-rumbled  and  out- 
smoked  other  machines  of  his  class,  he  did  all,  and  was 
reaping  all  the  glory.     He  felt  potent  enough  to  distance 


nCUT  RIVER. 

on  of  a  diiTercnt  character 

man  in  the  stage-coach, 
)rd  of  mouth,  as  the  editor 
he  Banner  of  Principle,  or 
le  other  great  name.  His 
leech  had  got  the  start  of 
imcd  him  an  uneducated, 
?xceedingly  flattered  some- 
rig  ago,  as  an  extraordinary 
ms  whom  to  see  is  to  pity, 
t  after  the  sufferings  you 
d  set  out  in  hfe  wrong,  and 
eh  he  must  inevitably  track 
thing  on  mistake :  neither 
ion  of  him,  nor  his  import- 
supposed.  His  pretended 
lemselves,  and  really  exer- 
ing  his  society  in  order  to 
g  him  as  a  tool. 
e  in  the  neighbourhood  of 
ng  abundance  of  seif-coa« 
:quaintance  with  the  lower 
s  apparent  currency  every- 
ints.  "When,  therefore,  the 
)fl'ered  to  him,  he  supposed 
liis  merit ;  and  when  I  saw 
iss  on  such  slender  capital, 
erceive,  nor  the  humility  to 
the  friendly  calls  of  Squire 
ersing  with  him  on  matters 
ssays,  and  the  whisper  that 
Nintry  to  conduct  a  paper 
ere  about  to  establish ;  so 
uive  on  a  railroad,  and  ran 
•ack  which  he  was  not  per- 
ile  he  out-rumbled  and  out- 
class, he  did  all,  and  was 
potent  enough  to  distance 


A  ORKAT  rOHTICAL  CHARACTER.  I37 

deadly  sat  re  He  Jr  T  ""^  i"'  intolerable  wit  and 
writers  wi  1.  In"  f  '^^'"""'^  '•'''^^  ^^'^  '""^'^Is  of  English 
persj   ur^"C7  a'  dT"'  "''  '"'^'""^^"  '°  arrange.liU; 

andL„ob^i„t::vrnt  Tr^o:t\:dr'7r'^r 

age  of  improven.Pti.  h.,i  „  ?  "•"'  '^'^'ned  that  the 

4  ,0  beTonelwlv      IZ'  '"''  '^V^  "''"^  oW-fasinoned 
mere  truth   when  hwonll'."'""'^  ^'  '^''  "«^  "''^"^'"g 

language,  hi: '/eSdtrat   r:ot:.rhf rf    ';f  ''  '' 
say,  his  navers  nn,l  1 1  ?  "'^  patrons  (that  is  to 

poh  t  and^h  Td  he  hT't^'  ^'1'"^  *'""  '°  ^'"«  ^"^ 
most  popuCr  e'd  tors  in  solr  T'J  ''^'^"'"^  '"^  "^«'  '^  "'« 
begun  to  excel  omeofT  ■^'"  P^^graphs,  as  he  had 
slang.  AUZ  old  nS  ^''%"""*'««'  ^'"^ge  politicians  in 
•^othfng  tt     ZldeLT^r  1;"^-'"""  comprehended 

the  NaL.  pruL^;:i-^a:iTer:Js;  *'°^ 

one  of^Ihro^Sr 'd'^'  " ''  ^"  "°"-'  '^^'^  — 
these  times     atd  hi    f      ^"1"!"°  ^""'"'^  ^  *«»  'h^m,  for 

his  re-^ctiU  ireV  betufe't  '  h"  ''^  ""  ^"^'^-^  '" 
"Sing  the  means  'pLr.  ^  ^^^  ''""*'  ^«1''  without 
was  meant  uflulT.h  T"^'  ^  ^''^^''^'^  last  Thursday 

we  were  dl  lh.W  to  "V"'  "^''^ '^^^  -PP»-  'hiJ 
them  the  next  e?ec  fon  tL  1  T'  ""'  ^^  '^'^^  «how 
won't  like  to  see  a  ^w  man  nt'".""''°'  '."  '^'  «'^'« 
house  will  be  all  onesL.  .      .  l''^*'^  '  ^"'^  ^he  lower 

j"g.     The  presenrnaru    •         '''"""'  ""^^  '^^  handle  of  a 
rafhioned  pe^oXS:  bu"[  X'^liLTfor.r  "'t 

a  c'andidTtr:;  hlii^":„';n/t"i''T'"  ^^-^^^  ^^^ 

valley.     He's  rather  p  h     .  .     'ron-founders  in  the 

the  temperance  tople  sa^  th"'  ''?^''^'"'  ''"^^^-'  «"d 
sistently,  because  h  IS  h  ^,'"?'  ''^'"«*'  hi",  con- 
isallbu  readytotakeT   h.:H    rt'"^  '^'^"'^^'    ^"'^  he 

ciety.  ThatLij^r!;:t^^^^Tr— - 


I 

f 


138 


ROUTE  UP  CONNECTICUT  RIVER. 


should  do  it  at  present,  for  it's  hard  work  to  make  all 
sorts  of  our  friends  believe  what  we  tell  ihem.  But,  how- 
ever.  Squire  Sycophant  says  he's  the  only  man  tiiat  can 
manage  the  captain ;  and  as  he'll  probably  be  persuaded 
to  be  Speaker  of  the  House  this  year,  though  he's  the  most 
modest  man  in  the  Union,  I  think  we  shall  get  along.  Now 
all  these  difficulties  an  editor  has  to  be  provided  against ; 
and  it  requires  a  good  deal  of  tact,  I  can  tell  you,  to  know 
exactly  who  to  touch  up,  and  who  to  let  alone;  and  when 
to  call  names,  and  how  to  tell  a  lie  all  but,  and  creep  out  when 
you  are  charged  with  it,  and  turn  the  laugh  on  the  other  side 
by  giving  them  a  rap  over  the  knuckles.  But  things  will 
be  so  in  a  free  country  like  ours." 

"  Ah !"  said  a  dedate  old  gentleman,  in  the  stage-coach, 
♦•you  pay  a  high  compliment  to  the  spirit  of  popular 
government.  The  press,  as  I  argue  from  your  remarks, 
is  rapidly  rising  in  dignity  and  purity." 

"  Why,  yes,  that  is,  it  is  improving  in  spirit  and  life,  and 
it  is  waking  up  the  people,  at  least  in  our  section  of  coun- 
try, where  there  are  men  v/ho  never  used  to  read  who — 
now  take  my  paper." 

The  houses  at  which  I  spent  the  night  had  been  duly 
furnished  with  the  tracts  for  this  month  by  the  Tract  So- 
ciety ;  there  was  a  Bible  in  my  chamber,  bearing  an  inscrip- 
tion to  show  that  it  had  been  presented  by  the  Connecticut 
Bible  Society  to  the  hotel ;  and  among  the  newspapers  in 
the  reading-room  was  the  last  number  of  a  Sabbath-school 
and  a  Temperance  Journal.  Here  was  new  evidence  that 
the  spirit  of  beneficent  association  was  in  full  operation 
around  me,  and  turned  my  mind  to  consider  the  amount  of 
its  influence,  annually,  monthly,  and  daily,  in  the  country  at 
large.  How  a  connexion  with  one  of  these  societies  tends 
to  give  a  good  direction  to  the  heart,  the  head,  the  feet,  and 
the  himds !  When  a  movement  has  been  made  for  the  first 
time  in  a  village,  for  the  promotion  of  any  such  object,  by 
measures  never  attempted  there  before,  benevolence,  activity, 
independence,  and  perseverance  are  often  necessary,  in  a 
considerable  degree,  to  secure  success.  It  is  the  nature  of 
every  virtue,  as  well  as  of  the  intellect,  to  gain  strength  by 


1 


•TICVT  RIVER. 

I's  hard  work  to  make  all 
t  we  tell  ihem.  But,  how- 
ie*s  the  only  man  liiat  can 
le'U  probably  be  persuaded 
J  year,  though  he's  the  most 
ik  we  shall  get  along.  Now 
as  to  be  provided  against; 
ict,  I  can  tell  you,  to  know 
who  to  let  alone  ;  and  when 
e  all  but,  and  creep  out  when 
1  the  laugh  on  the  other  side 
!  knuckles.     But  things  will 

■8." 

ntleman,  in  the  stage-coach, 
L  to   the   spirit  of  popular 

argue  from  your  remarks, 
purity." 
roving  in  spirit  and  life,  and 
east  in  our  section  of  coun- 

never  used  to  read  who — 

t  the  night  had  been  duly 
his  month  by  the  Tract  So- 
chamber,  bearing  an  inscrip- 
ircsented  by  the  Connecticut 
1  among  the  newspapers  in 
number  of  a  Sabbaih>school 
icre  was  new  evidence  that 
iation  was  in  full  operation 
d  to  consider  the  amount  of 
',  and  daily,  in  the  country  at 
one  of  these  societies  tends 
leart,  the  head,  the  feet,  and 
t  has  been  made  for  the  first 
lotion  of  any  such  object,  by 
before,  benevolence,  activity, 
!e  are  often  necessary,  in  a 
success.  It  is  the  nature  of 
intellect,  to  gain  strength  by 


SABnATH-SCHOOLS, 

139 

lZol^ec;n;dT'/sei;L  '^'''T''  '°  «'■'"  ^' 

e^'ery  city,  vlinge,  and   uml  i    '  ""''     ^  ''"''  "  '«  'hat 

is  a  Bible...o,.ie,y  or  a  8^ 'u  T',  '"""""J'  *^^^«  "-ere 
be  sa.d  to  have  had  its  O  ven  a  J  T^  T  '"  ''"''  -"«« 
port  of  s,..h  societies   and      .""'"'■     """^e  sup. 

tion  ;  and  hence  J2JZluT'r,  "''"  "•^''-  '""""da. 
busy  manufacturers   al.7m    'chant'  ;:'%""""^''^^  "-» 
labour  of  some  societies   and  „  r    ,'         "''"•"    '*>«  ^^hole 
of  them,  depends.     I    's  J  Tj     '^'  '^'  '^»«t  efficient 
practical  skill  and  knowled'e T  "f  ""'  °'^'^"  '^"'^  "ore 
tbeir  philanthropic  pursu h    fh.rinir'""  i"."'^  ''i'^^'  «f 
around  them.      f  they  fi,^d'  j  ,1"  J"  "'"  ^''"^«  community 
'«  their  o^vn  circle,  tly  lil    ulT'' °'-,  «"«^«"rageme„t 
and    regard    ihemselves^s  eonnl^  '."  '  u"""'^"'  'P*'"*' 

system  of  beneficence,  by  ;,,ieh  her  ""'^  ""  ^'''"'«'^« 
come  habitually  expanded  !n  I  V  1"'"'^'  ^"'^  ''««'"'  be- 
elevation  and  'a  W  wteh"'  'hT„:''""'r  ^•=^'"-  ^ 
training  could  confer  ^      ^^'  "^^  «"»^'-  course  of 

he  feels  that  he  is  bound  to  ^"V".«^«'"='a"on  of  this  kind, 
of  conduct,  and  that  any  deviation' f5^' '"'^  T""""  '^°""« 
and  disapproved.     He  finds  hT,?       ™  "  '"'"  ^'  observed 
similar  influences,  and  the  wLrr"'"'.  "''"  '^'''^'^  by 
and  refined.    At  the  same  time  ^Llar'n  "'  '"'^'^'^^  P""««^ 
•nterested  source  from  which  thl         f^"''"'"'  *"''  'be  dis- 
feelings  as  well  a,  mutj    "Ttr"^'  T'"'^''  ^^»'«™^ 
sexes,  which  often  prevai  o^eTal   TZ^  '^'  ^'""'^  °^ ''«''» 
station,  family,  and  property      ,'f'^f  ^^'^  '"  P™fes«ion, 
according  ,o 'their  cha^.  ,  ^  '^'l^^^  «  ».'-  take  rank 
society  presents  a  kind  of  iitt  ;  renubt         'I'^L  '""^  '^'^ 
not  purchased,  and  office,  are  uZid     '  '"  ""^"'^  ''''''  «« 

hed^d ;:;  tr::::^::^:::!^^^  ^'^aracter  ortheyoun, 

taking  with  them,  wherever  the v.^^,""""  "'  ''^""^''^ ''«' 
they  enjoy  at  home.  AsZlS^l'l' T''''''''^' ''''^^^''g 
-..ne.tdationwtthh.mtf  2;:--  -t^^^^ 


I 


1'^ 


j^Q  nOUTE  UP  CONNECTICUT  niVER. 

Of  greater  value  than  any  letter  of  introduction.  He  cannot 
JeiS  a  claim  to  the  name,  for  notl.ing  bu-  hab.t  can  famihar- 
«  him  w  h  the  operation,  of  a  Sabbath-school  sudicently 
ocorveTr intelligently  on  the  subject;  and  many  a  httle 
ShlbbTeJh  would  be  detected  in  any  one  who  might  attempt 
to  pass  for  what  he  was  not. 

I  xvas  once  led  to  rellect  on  the  security  which  the  bab- 
bath-school  often  gives  to  strangers,  in  K>rming  op.n.o.is  oj 
each  other,  and  exercising  mutual  conhdence    by  having 
entered  one   myself,  where  I  w^s  received  as  a  feilow- 
labourer,  miknown,  and  yet  well  known.    Seeing  a  stranger 
enter  and  silently  seat  himself,  one  of  the  teachers  immedi- 
ate  y  Erected  the  attention  of  the  superintendent  to  me  who 
Td  Lced  with  a  respectful  bow,  cordially  gave  me  his  hand 
and  invited  me  to  walk  with  him  round  the  school.     I  felt 
that         was  all  in  order ;  and  penetrated  his  heart  because 
I  hadioften  been  placed  in  his  situation,  and  acted  exactly 
as  he  Sad  done  and  intended  to  do.     I  saw  that  he  took  mc 
?or  a  teacher  from  some  distant  town,  but  received  me  only 
in  tJerSore  general  character  of  a  friend  of  morals  and  in- 
teligence  which  I  had  professed  by  the  fact  of  entering  his 
door      H  s  doubts  were' to  be  settled,  while  his  first  dunes 
of  courtesy  were  performing  during  our  circuit  arnong  he 
c  asses     Some  of  his  remarks  on  the  course  of  studie 
natural  y  led  me  to  replies,  from  which  he  plainly  inferred 
mXiliarity  with  SabL^h-schools ;  and  were  followed  by 
Z^Zs  concerning  my  own  experience  on  certain  points 
^which  he  had  found  difficulty.     Thus  the  fact  of  my 
being  a  brother-teacher  was  satisfactorily  established.     He 
then  apologized  for  the  vacancy  of  several  seats,  by  stating 
that  he  had  recemly  formed  the  school,  at  the  wish  of  the 
different  churches  in  the  vicinity,  and  received  teachers  as 
tell  as  pupiU  from  several  congregations  of  different  sects, 
; Uh  such  recruits  as  had  been  drawn  from  »he  manufae  ones 
on  one  side  and  the  farm-houses  on  the  other.     Without 
anv  knowledge  of  his  sect,  or  a  single  attempt  to  ascertain 
U,he  respectfully  requested  another  stranger  to  make  an 
address  to  the  school,  when  it  should  close,  to  which  he 
consented.     Seeing  a  class  of  children  without  a  teacher, 


v 
a 
h 
a 
z< 
k 

01 


ECTICIJT  RIVER. 

r  of  introduction.  He  cannot 
lotliing  b\i'  habil  can  familiar- 
a  Sabbath-school  sumdently 
\e  subject ;  and  many  a  little 
in  any  one  who  might  attempt 

n  the  security  which  the  Sab- 
angers,  in  forming  opinions  of 
nuiual  confidence,  by  havmg 
I  wrts  received  as  a  fellow- 
ell  known.  Seeing  a  stranger 
If,  one  of  the  teachers  immedi- 

the  superintendent  to  me,  who 
w,  cordially  gave  me  his  hand, 
I  him  round  the  school.  I  felt 
id  penetrated  his  heart,  because 
la  situation,  and  acted  exactly 
to  do.  I  saw  that  he  took  mc 
int  town,  but  received  me  only 
r  of  a  friend  of  morals  and  in- 
ssed  by  the  fact  of  entering  his 
be  settled,  while  his  first  duties 

during  our  circuit  among  the 
arks  on  the  course  of  studies 

from  which  he  plainly  inferred 
schools ;  and  were  followed  by 
n  experience  on  certain  points 
fficully.     Tlius  the  fact  of  my 

satisfactorily  established.  He 
mcy  of  several  seats,  by  stating 
1  the  school,  at  the  wish  of  the 
cinity,  and  received  teachers  as 
congregations  of  different  sects, 
en  drawn  from  the  manufactories 
houses  on  the  other.  Without 
,  or  a  single  attempt  to  ascertain 
1  another  stranger  to  make  an 
len  it  should  close,  to  which  he 
1  of  children  without  a  teacher, 


THK  BEArxiKB  OF  NATl'RE. 


Ml 


v.'ho  had  come  from  some  of  the  poorest  dwellinos  in  tHe 
ne.ghbourI.ood.  I  voh..,teered  to  instruct  them,  and  was 
soon  seated  w.th  the  Question  Book  of  the  Wican  Sun- 
day-schoo.  Union  and  the  New  Testament  open  in  my 
h.nds  at  the  lesson  for  the  day.  When  the' hour  S 
elapsed  and  the  speaker  rose.  I  surveyed  the  assembly  with 
h  refIect.o.t  that  hundreds  of  thousands  of  ehildre/we  e 
thus  asse.nbled  .n  the  oou.ury  for  similar  objects,  under  the 
instruct.0.,  of  tens  of  thousands  of  teachers. 

Such  re/iecttons  are  impressed  upon  the  mind  more  deeply 

,na,  1^»       ,  Connecticut  does  nature,  animate  and 

rSaT'fsalK.  ^"'"™^^^'^'  ^^^-'^"  -'-  --^^^ 
It  IS  easy  to  perceive  something  of  the  extensive  and 
powerful  influence  which  such  assoeiatioiis   a  e  exertl^e 
upon  the  mnids  and  hearts,  the  manners  an.l  habits  of  2 
countrymen,  as  well  as  the  importance  of  having  such  im^ 
provements  introduced  into  thL  system  as  miglft  renderl 
more  perfect  and  efTectual.    Such  gratifying  intfrviews  may 
be  enjoyed  every  week.      We  may  part!  perhaps    even 
Jgnoram  of  each  other's  names  ;  bufwl  ;u?fS^^^^ 
ho«e  of  Bunyan's  fr.ends,.  who  "went  on  rejoicing,  fnd  I 
saw  them  no  more."    Such  a  morni.,g  exercise  gives  warmth 
and  elevation  to  the  devotions  of  the  day. 

.rP^!"fi'' .•""'•'''"''•'•"''  '^"  C«""^^'''ieut  is  admired, a 
great  deal  of  enjoyment  is  often  lost  by  not  having  the  ad- 
vantage  of  the  most  favourable  light  to  see  it  in.  The  broad 
and  level  meadows,  with  all  their  fertility,  and  the  swelW 
ulls  and  woody  blufls  which  by  turns  imerrupt  them  S 
appear  tame  and  uninteresting  when  the  s'un  isl'Te 
zenith  ;  but  when  near  the  morning  or  the  evening  horizon 

oftTatter.       "''"""  "^  ""''  '"'^  ^''""^  ^"  '^e  vTdety 

"re  are  to  become  objects  of  general  attention  and  study 

«cenec^nf'      '.!      ",'  ^'"  """'*  richly,  and  the  humblest 
scene  can  furnish  real  pleasure  to  the  eye  which  intelligently 


143 


ROUTE  VP  CONNECTICUT  HIVEH. 


observes  it,  and  may  ass-ist  in  raising  the  heart  to  objrch 
far  above  itself.  "  I  have  in(iuirptl  of  mr.iy  plain  people  oi' 
good  sense,"  remarked  a  highly-intelligent  and  ingenious 
gentleman,  "  to  ascertain  whether  there  exists  among  our 
yeomanry  any  distinct  conceptions  of  beauty  in  the  objects  of 
nature  ;  and  I  fear  they  too  generally  look  with  interest  on 
a  fine  walnut-tree,  merely  because  they  associate  with  its 
size  its  greater  value  for  fuel."  And  as  for  hills  and  streams, 
he  was  apprehensive  that  the  first  are  regarded  only  on  ac- 
count of  the  wood  or  stone  they  afford,  and  the  other  as 
they  contain  fish.  Certain  it  is,  that  while  we  all  possess 
feelings  which  sublime  and  beautiful  objects  must  move,  and 
fashion  begins  to  incline  many  to  talk  of  scenery  around  us, 
as  it  formerly  forbade  us  to  praise  any  thing  American,  there 
is  a  great,  an  almost  universal  inattention  to  the  true  prin- 
ciples of  fdste  among  our  countrymen,  which  proper  means 
might  correct. 

We  have  sufl^cient  native  talent  around  us  to  furnish  pic- 
tures whenever  they  shall  be  demanded  by  public  taste,  and 
paid  for ;  while  for  scenes,  we  are  abundantly  supplied  with 
them,  both  for  landscape  and  historical  painting.     When 
fashion  shall  once  have  turned,  I  expect  to  see  a  strong 
current  setting  in  favour  of  the  ornamental  arts  ;  and  I  think 
the  great  and  various  changes  we  have  heretofore  seen  in 
society,  warrant  us  in  the  hope  that  something  important  is 
yet  in  reserve  for  us  on  a  matter  connected  with  so  mucli 
that  is  truly  refining.     Let  our  artists,  therefore,  raise  their 
dejected  eyes,  and  continue  to  employ  their  leisure  hours  in 
the  creations  of  their  rich  fancies,  or  the  portraiture  of  richer 
nature,  believing  that  the  time  will  come  when  their  produc- 
tions will  be  appreciated,  and  exert  their  influence  upon 
society. 

Such  reflections  as  these,  and  many  more,  were  excited 
by  a  vish  I  made  not  long  since  to  a  young  artist,  who  has 
devoted  such  moments  as  he  could  spare  from  a  variety  of 
other  employments  to  the  study  and  practice  of  painting. 
He  has  refused,  wisely  perhaps,  to  trust  to  an  art  so  pre- 
carious for  the  supply  of  his  bread,  but  has  made  consider- 
able progress  in  drawing,  colouring,  lights  and  shades,  in 


r 

a 
c 

V 

tl 

tl 


:ticct  river. 

raising  the  heart  to  objpcl! 
ircd  of  mr.iy  plnin  people  ol 
ily-intelligPiU  and  ingeuious 
hrr  there  exists  among  our 
ins  of  beauty  in  the  objects  of 
iierally  look  with  interest  on 
ause  they  associate  with  its 
And  as  for  hills  and  streams, 
irst  are  regarded  only  on  ac- 
ley  aflbrd,  and  the  other  as 
s,  that  while  we  all  possess 
iitiful  objects  must  move,  and 
to  talk  of  scenery  around  us, 
ise  any  thing  American,  there 
inattention  to  the  true  prin- 
itrymen,  which  proper  moans 

lent  around  us  to  furnish  pic- 
lemanded  by  public  taste,  and 
are  abundantly  supplied  with 
I  historical  painting.  When 
ed,  I  expect  to  see  a  strong 
ornamental  arts  ;  and  I  think 
we  have  heretofore  seen  in 
e  that  something  important  is 
atter  connected  with  so  mucli 
r  artists,  therefore,  raise  their 
I  employ  their  leisure  hours  in 
ies,  or  the  portraiture  of  richer 
I  will  come  when  their  produc- 
d  exert  their  influence  upon 

and  many  more,  were  excited 
ice  to  a  young  artist,  who  has 
could  spare  from  a  variety  of 
udy  and  practice  of  painting. 
,ps,  to  trust  to  an  art  so  pre- 
bread,  but  has  made  consider- 
)louring,  lights  and  shades,  in 


BATH. 


143 


In.  leisure,  at  least  enough  to  gratify  friend,  and  please  him- 
sell.     And  are  tlicre  no  means  by  which  the  attention  of 

In..      "  "^i^'^"'-f  '«n''^^«d  useful  as  well  as  graiifyinp 

he  W'r  '  '"'^  P"'"''"^  "'"'  ^'"'  ""  ''""'  «'  '^o  daily! 
he  would  improve  mor.  rapidly  than  alone;    and  if  theh- 

number   were  mcreased,   the   benefit   to   each   individu" 

would  become  proportionally  greater.     Now  let  it  bo  sup- 

he  attention  of  a  few  persons  in  even-  village,  and  employ 
he  tin.e  now  spent  in  frivolous  rca.iing,  idling  at  corners 
hstlessness  and  vacuity,  or  even  a  tenth  part  of  tl  at Ti^e  •' 
would  not  a  taste  be  cultivated,  a  knowledge  gained  S 
nught  lead  to  a  more  just  estimate  of  the  art  and  a  highrr  ap. 
prec.aUon  of  our  leading  artists  ?  Would  they  not  ilra  ly 
be  better  rewarded  and  more  highly  encouraged,  and  the 
pubhc  benefited  by  turning  a  little  attention  tf  theltru  ! 
tions  which  the  canvass  can  give  T 

Again  passing  over  many  miles  and  pleasant  villages,  and 
adm.nng  without  praising  the  fine  farms  and  hardy  pSple  of 
Vermont  and  New-Hampshire.  I  approach  the  WhSe  K 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

Approach  to  the  White  Hills-Bath-Refloction,  on  Societv-Th. 
>\.ld  Ammonoosuc-Breton  Woods-C^awford'LsceneVT 

Bath    appeared   very  pleasant   to   me,  for    the  same 
reasons  that  places  where  travellers  find  Welcome  repose 

co2^\f        YTr'-  ■'""^^^'^'^'^^  the  comfortable  ac 
commodat,ons  wh.ch  the  tavern  alForded  me,  I  had  the  ad. 

t^  sfttini  '''TV     ^^"""  ""^"  "'^  ^'"P'"^  t'^^"-  «f  both 
the  se  tmg  and  the  ns.ng  sun,  which  are  so  favourable  to 

the  picturesque  features  even  of  the  tamest  landscape.    The 


1 

i 

r 


r 


144 


THI  WHITE  HILLS. 


village  is  small,  but  neat,  and  had  two  or  three  very  pretty 
houses  standing  back  from  the  street,  in  t!ic  midst  of  ^rass 
and  trees,  beside  a  due  proportion  of  shade  and  open  field 
on  every  side.  Here  are  two  smooth  and  fertile  levels,  as 
regular  as  artiticial  terraces,  rising  from  the  bank  of  Con- 
necticut River ;  and  every  thing  around  me  retained  an  aspect 
appropriate  to  that  stream,  thoii},'li  its  diminished  breadth 
and  the  wild  uplands  gave  me  the  painful  recollection  that 
here  I  was  to  change  my  route,  and  penetrate  into  a  more 
•avage  and  inhospitable  region. 

As  I  bade  a  femporarj  jidieu  to  my  native  stream  in  the 
morning,  and  while  my  horse  was  taking  due  heed  to  his 
feet  up  a  rough  and  stony  hill,  my  tlioughts  pursued  its  cur- 
rent downwards,  through  the  region  I  had  just  been  travel- 
ling oTer.  How  different  were  my  feelings  on  leaving  the 
Thames,  the  Seine,  the  Itiiine,  the  Arno,  and  the  Tiber ! 
I  had  found  nothing  there  wliich  satisfied  the  heart  like  a 
social  or  family  circle,  and  the  state  of  society  which  sur- 
rounds us  in  our  own  land. 

Although  no  gaudy  show  of  wealth  had  here  in  any  form 
been  presented  to  my  eyes,  I  had  nothing  to  regret  in  the 
absence  of  such  palaces  or  equipages  as  arc  so  much  ad- 
mired by  many  travelled  wits,  and  occupy  so  many  of  the 
books  of  tourists.  My  mind  had  been  agreeably  occupied 
with  reflections  on  the  nature  and  tendency  of  such  a  state 
of  society  as  there  exists,  the  simjile  causes  which  had  pro- 
duced such  desirable  effects,  and  the  measures  by  which 
they  may  be  rendered  productive  of  many  more.  If  certain 
enlightened  philanthropists  of  Europe  whom  I  might  narao 
but  possessed  the  facilities  we  enjoy  for  contributing  to  the 
benefit  of  mankind ;  if  they  were  among  men  and  circum- 
stances like  these,  the  results  of  two  centuries  practical 
operation  of  free  and  universal  education,  under  a  govern- 
ment owing  its  existence  and  all  its  prospects  to  tlie 
propagation  of  knowledge  and  the  diffusion  of  virtue,  with 
what  zeal,  witli  what  liope,  witii  what  success  would  tliey 
labour !  If  I  could  see  those  enlhu  jiaslic  friends  of  knowledge 
in  France,  wiio  have  just  erected  that  new  and  splciulid 
fabrici  the  national  system  of  public  education  for  the  king- 


r 


( 

i 

s 
n 
^( 
n 
hi 
in 
to 

CO 

of 

tO( 

rei 

M( 
Wi 

his 

sha 

roc 

do  ) 

Wij 

the 

and 

grea 

had 

geol 

hens 

mem 

scier 

to  nr 

their 

in  thi 

to  att 

but  tl 

better 

pare  1 

finemi 

been  i 


IIILL9. 

1(1  two  or  three  very  pretty 
itrcct,  in  i!ic  midst  of  ^rass 
m  of  shiule  and  oprn  field 
miooth  and  fertile  leveln,  as 
iiig  from  the  bank  of  Con- 
iround  me  retained  an  aspect 
ii{;li  its  diminished  breadth 
lie  painful  recollection  that 
S  and  penetrate  into  a  more 

to  my  native  stream  in  the 
as  taking  due  heed  to  his 
ny  thoughts  pursued  its  cur- 
gion  I  had  just  been  travcl- 
niy  feelings  on  leaving  the 
the  Arno,  and  the  Tiber ! 
1  satisfied  the  heart  like  a 
state  of  society  which  sur- 

'ealth  had  here  in  any  form 
lad  nothing  to  regret  in  the 
pages  as  are  so  much  ad- 
ind  occupy  so  many  of  the 
ad  been  agreeably  occupied 
nd  tendency  of  such  a  state 
inple  causes  which  had  pro- 
nd  the  measures  by  which 
e  of  many  more.  If  certain 
Europe  whom  I  might  name 
;njoy  for  contributing  to  the 
ire  among  men  and  circum- 
of  two  centuries  practical 
education,  under  a  govern- 
l  all  its  prospects  to  the 
he  dilfusion  of  virtue,  with 
li  what  success  would  they 
Lijiaslic  friends  of  knowledge 
ted  that  new  and  splciuiid 
ablic  education  for  the  king- 


T 


WILD  SCENEnV 


148 


-er..  pircJn  among  '  eo  ,1  :/;  f '"'."''f'''^  *^-''^'-- 
ready  and  capable  L,  M  ,f  /  /  ^  '"^'•''  ''"^  """^h  "'oro 
'"'n/Hnd  to  raider  bbn  '  """  '"  '"^  "'""'""'•O''  ''7 

too  pure  and  Jofty  /b    h  '^    ;^;'"  "    "^  'l-s-gn.,  which  are 

of  the  best  men  in  "he     I    W    i  r^"'^'''  "'"'  ''^'^'^  ^"'"e 
too  much  in  advance  of   I  "re  charged  with  being 

-«aiuto3up'r;:.:[,Sr:^L;';^'"-"-'>ot.iS 

Wild  Ammonoosuc!     f    Lt  11       '  l'"  '"""^  "'^  ^''« 
'"s  feelings  deenlJ  uLll     i  f     ?  "'  ^  '''''«•''«  ^"' ^nd 

shadowing^o   7ti     t  .  '^  "'f  ^'""'"  «''  ">«  °^«^r- 

rocky  omfnljic's      .  ;;     ^ST;;  ;'^'';  ^^  ru,,e,  and 

o  no,  ,  ^,^^„ -;of  ^';o  -  .„      ,  , 

the  b-anks'sht'  mrX'  ''7  7}  '"-''i- ^s' 

nnd  ."-'yof  th"er;tVa  ;sn  ;;ptJSi  '"rr^^ 

preat  height  from  the  rrroun.'      n  .  1^'"'  ^"^  '«  » 

l.ad  been'  purposely  Sr'to  gi     "rV  sStTr^'' 
geology,  in  the  laboratory  of  natifre-  and  v„n  r  t    "''  '"* 

scientific  in:;2:  I  h£:;  ^ 'aildtS^  "'  ^^^'!J 

in  thirpart'  nhe  I       :;"  ^^^J^-"mln.rnnnU.,ii.uonl 
to  attract  the  be^rs      n?'  """^  "°'  '^^^^  ^•''•"^s  enough 

better  choose  som     otil  "  o,  te     f  eo"7, '''"'.''''  '''^ 
™>  entrance  by  a  genteel  young  woman, 


uo 


THL  WiUlK  ItlLLn. 


T 


who,  with  a  »ini;uhir  inixtiiie  of  8imi)le  kngitafje,  plain 
drea-M,  s.:ir.res|HMt,  modnsly,  lUunt,  ami  appropriate  expres- 
sion, asiied  my  wislics ;  and  alUT  a  lew  (p..;siion«  and  re 
mariv.s,  uhidi  betrayed  sense  and  knowUnlge,  pro.'ccded  to 
asMHl  ill   preparing  my  dinner.      At  the  table,  whi.U  shv 
spread,  she  presided  with  uiialVeeted  ease  and  dignity,  and 
made  me  almost  forget  an  exeelleut  meal  by  her  more  intcr- 
estinir  eonvcrsation.     She  nave  me   a  sketeh  of  the  win- 
tcr-sccnery  in  this  inhospitable   region,  and  showed  that 
there  was  sufllcient  reason  for  bestowing  the  epitiiet  mU 
upon  the  Ammonoosuc,  which  poured  by  withm  hearing  of 
the  house.     After  dinner,  a  little  library  was  thrown  open 
to  me,  and  I  had  ii  hundred  or  two  well-seleetcd  and  well- 
read  volumes  at  my  ('^sposal,  with  a  sofa,  and  solitude  for  ft 
nap,  all  which  1  enjoyed.  ,      ,  ,• 

In  all  this  I  read  the  efleets  of  a  good  private  and  public 
American  education.     The  young  mistress  of  the  house  had 
been  taught  at  the  academy  of  a  village  below ;  and,  what 
was  of  greater  importance,  had  been  trained  up  hya  mothc; 
of  no  common  character.     Some  persons  would  have  said 
that  she  had  been  accustomed  to  good  society;  but,  per- 
haps, that  was  not  true  in  the  usual  sense  of  that  word, 
though  I  doubt  not  that  whatever  society  was  around  her 
was  good  in  a  better  sense  :  that  is,  intelligent,  simple,  and 
virtuous.     But  what  is  generally  intended  by  good  society, 
is  that  of  fashionable  life,  which  is  no  more  able  to  form 
such  a  character  as  wc  approve  than  the  wild  Ammonoosuc 
is  to  make  a  purling  rivulet.     To  those  who  know  our  state 
of  society,  it  will  be  sufTicicnt  to  add,  that  the  lady  of  whom 
I  speak  had  been  a  teacher  in  the  Sabbath-school  before 
her  marriage,  and  betrayed  in  her  conversation  an  acquaint- 
ance with  some  of  those  other  great  systems  of  benevolence 
which  so  much  interest,  excite,  and  bind  together  die  Prot- 
estant church,  while  they  enlarge  the  views  of  individuals, 
and  give  a  powerful  direction  to  tho  public  mind. 

As  I  proceeded,  savage  life  seemed  more  and  more  to 
thicken  around  me ;  and  after  I  had  become  weary  of  look- 
ing for  another  habitation  among  the  lofty  hemlocks,  trading 
wUh  tufts  and  strearacrb  of  moss,  I  began  to  reflect  again 


IK  ltlLL^< 

c  of  8in\i)le  lanfriiagc,  pbi'.i 
liii'iU,  and  appropririte  txprcs- 
altcr  a  few  (piesiion«  anil  rr 
anil  knowU'ilge,  piocccilc.il  to 
er.      Al  the  tabic,  which  »hv 
iHVclcil  case  ami  ilif^nity,  and 
ccUcnt  meal  by  her  more  intcr- 
avc  nic   a  sketch  of  the  win- 
!l)lc   region,  and  showed  that 
for  bcHlowinfr  the  epithet  wilJ 
h  poured  by  within  hearing,'  of 
little  libiary  was  thrown  open 
or  two  well-selected  and  well- 
,  with  a  sofa,  and  solitude  for  a 

ts  of  a  good  private  and  public 
(foung  mistress  of  the  house  had 
of  a  village  below ;  and,  what 
ad  been  trained  up  by  a  mothc: 
iome  persons  would  have  said 
Tied  to  good  society;  but,  pcr- 
the  usual  sense  of  that  word, 
atever  society  was  around  her 

thai  is,  intelligent,  simple,  and 
erally  intended  by  good  society, 
which  is  no  more  able  to  form 
rove  than  the  wild  Ammonoosuc 
To  those  who  know  our  state 
nt  to  add,  that  the  lady  of  wliom 
ir  in  the  Sabbath-school  before 
in  her  conversation  an  acquaint- 
ler  great  systems  of  benevolence 
cite,  and  bind  together  the  Prot- 
nlarge  the  views  of  individuals, 
)n  to  tho  public  mind, 
life  seemed  more  and  more  to 
icr  I  had  become  weary  of  look- 
mong  the  lofty  hemlocks,  trailing 

moss,  I  began  to  reflect  again 


T 


illE  HEFINKMENT  OF  80CIETV. 


1<7 


on  the  civilization  I  had  left.     If  intHI.eoncc.  thon^h.  J.  „ 
lound  m  the  Scotch  and  Swis.  mountains,  where  ,,  .hl.r* 
any  excuse  for  its  not  pcnctratin,^  the  r.-motcM  n^ions  of 
tlic  (.luted  Mates,  where  popidaiion  exists?     What  is  the 
or.jfui  and  nature  of  our  refmemenl,  and  how  can  it  be  ex- 
tend,.!  and  j.erp.tUHte.l ?     Who  shall  answer  for  u.  these 
qucMtons?     Who  .hall   tell  «h  how  we  may  br,i  act  or, 
1..-.  nnportant  subj..,.  ?     Where  is  the  man  who  has  ^iven 
It  all  the  consideration  it  deserves!     Is  there  a  habitation 
or  a  imiversity  which  contains  the  individual?     If  .so.  his 
thoughts  should  be  known  over  the  whole  country ;  he  should 
prea.-h  to  us  all ;  he  should  iiwtruct  the  nation  in  their  duties 
anil  their  destiny.     Certain  it  is,  that  if  we  would  study  the 
subject  aright,  we  must  divest  our  minds  of  foreign  views, 
and  think  mdejit'iidently  and  for  ourselves. 

I  «hail  not  easily  forget  the  admiration  excited  among  a 
party  of  distinguished  travellers,  a  few  summers  since,  by 
the  manners  ol   a  young  woman  who  attendi'd  them   at 
supper,   m   a    little    country  inn    in   Massachusetts.     The 
Iriends,  who  were  partly  Spaniards  and  j.artly  South  Ameri- 
cans   were  so  niu..h  struck  with  her  dignity  and  grace  in 
discharging  the  humble  duties  assigned  her  by  her  parents 
that  they  often  made  it  the  subject  of  conversation  hundreda 
of  miles  distant.    \  et  they  never  seemed  able  to  appreciate 
he  state  of  things  among  which  she  had  been  educated,  and 
were  (]uite  at  a  loss  to  account  for  the  growth  of  such  pol. 
isheil  manners  m  a  state  of  entire  non-intercourse  with  courts 
and  even  cities.     To  me  it  never  was  surprising  that  tliev 
adnnrcd  the  reality  of  what  they  had  previously  admired 
only  m  counterfeits;  and  as  I  had  some  knowledge  of  the 
nature  of  the  society  to  which  they  had  been  accustomed, 
as  well  as  of  tliat  in  which  she  had  been  bred,  I  saw  how 
natural  was  their  error,  how  unavoidable,  in  their  circum- 
stances,  their  ignorance  and  doubt. 

As  for  good  manners,  that  external  sign  of  infernal  refine- 
ment,  those  of  a  genuine  nature  can  never  spring  from  a 
graft ;  they  are  the  fruit  of  a  good  heart  and  a  sound  head. 
Counterfeits  may  be  fabricated,  but  it  is  an  expense  of  ma. 
chinery  often  incalculable,  and  after  all  thei;  baseness  ia 


148 


THE  WHITE  HILLS. 


i 


W' 


'   ! 


S'?|f 


usually  discoverable,  at  least  by  those  who  have  any  ac- 
quaintance with  the  pure  metal.  Master  Rattlebrain,  junior, 
is  sent  to  a  dancing-school  by  his  half-fashionable  half-seri- 
ous mother,  not  to  learn  to  dance,  not  to  waste  time  or 
money  particularly,  but  to  form  his  manners.  This  is  con- 
sidered necessary  in  Pans  ;  and  the  Parisians  are  the  politest 
people  on  tiie  globe.  This  is  a  better  reason  than  a  certain 
sort  of  people  generally  admit  in  questions  of  moment ;  and 
the  youth  is  perhaps  found  a  few  years  after  improving  his 
manners  in  the  capital  of  fashion.  A  whirl  of  dressing, 
spurring,  tandem,  and,  perhaps,  four-in-hand  succeeds,  and 
in  a  few  years  you  may  write  his  epitaph,  if  you  would 
tell  the  truth,  "  Here  lies  a  victim  of  good-breeding — falsely 
so  called."  Ah,  these  juvenile  frivolities  lead  to  dissipations 
of  the  mind  and  heart,  which  the  fond  parent  sees  about  as 
clearly  as  he  does  those  of  the  morals  and  manners  which 
too  often  succeed  them  when  more  removed  from  parental 
oversight.  Yet  this  springs  not  from  any  inherent  vice  in 
the  pleasing  exercises,  but  more  from  the  want  of  that  sound 
domestic  education  and  virtuous  and  sensible  example,  by 
which  good  manners  should  be  implanted  and  cultivated. 

Parents  who  are  easy  and  refined  in  their  manners,  need 
not  have  boorish  children ;  and  if  they  give  a  son  or  daughter 
intelligence,  and  accustom  him  to  talk  sense,  and  to  exercise 
kindness  and  to  show  respect  to  those  around  him,  they  need 
not  fear  that  he  will  anywhere  speak  like  a  fool,  or  act  with 
impropriety. 

My  reflections  on  such  subjects,  however,  were  interrupted 
by  the  imposing  wildness  of  the  scenery  around  me ;  and 
though  I  may,  perhaps,  have  penetrated  further  into  this 
matter,  I  will  not  longer  trouble  my  readers  with  such  re- 
marks. 

After  a  solitary  ride  of  several  hours  through  Breton 
Woods,  along  an  avenue  cut  through  the  forest,  with  innu- 
merable tall  trees  rising  on  both  sides,  and  almost  covering 
me  from  the  sky,  I  reached  Roscbrook's  house.  In  a  world 
of  silence  and  solitude,  the  human  voice,  form,  and  face  are 
valued  as  much  above  their  worth  as  they  are  often  depre- 
ciated in  the  crowd  of  a  city.  I  had  got  tired  of  loneliness, 
whether  of  myself  or  trees,  I  cannot  tell — I  believe  of  both ; 


HILLS. 

y  those  who  have  any  ac- 
Master  Rattlebrain,  junior, 
is  half-fashionable  half-seri- 
uice,  not  to  waste  time  or 
his  manners.  This  is  con- 
the  Parisians  are  the  politest 
better  reason  than  a  certain 
1  questions  of  moment ;  and 
w  years  after  improving  his 
lion.  A  whirl  of  dressing, 
fouv-in-hand  succeeds,  and 
his  epitaph,  if  you  would 
n  of  good-breeding — falsely 
•ivolities  lead  to  dissipations 
le  fond  parent  sees  about  as 
I  morals  and  manners  which 
lore  removed  from  parental 
ot  from  any  inherent  vice  in 
from  the  want  of  that  sound 
3  and  sensible  example,  by 
implanted  and  cultivated, 
fined  in  their  manners,  need 
r  they  give  a  son  or  daughter 

0  talk  sense,  and  to  exercise 
those  around  him,  they  need 
peak  like  a  fool,  or  act  with 

;s,  however,  were  interrupted 
le  scenery  around  me ;  and 
penetrated  further  into  this 
!  my  readers  with  such  re- 

eral  hours  through  Breton 
irough  the  forest,  with  innu- 

1  sides,  and  almost  covering 
icbrook's  house.  In  a  world 
an  voice,  form,  and  face  are 
th  as  they  are  often  depre- 
[  had  got  tired  of  loneliness, 
innot  tell — I  believe  of  both ; 


ETHAN  CRAWrORD's.  j^g 

tl-kyou,"saic^:?a^t:     r'al^^^^^^^^^ 
men  are  just  sitting  down  to  dinner  "Lt^^^  T   ^^*^"'  '^e 
several  of  the  neighbours  are  heJe"     .  J  M  ^'''',f'  "  ^"'^ 
"T/rSot  r  Larticles  ^^^J^^^T'^''''' 

ing  for  the  stra'^e^To;'  \  r.^  ,  ^  ^^  TTT''  ''''- 
'«  features,  dre?s,  and  complex  on  Jn7  "^'"^  '"  ™"^^ 
robust,  ihat  I  felt  as  if  .hpT£  n  u  ^f  '"'^'"^  '°  ^""  ^nd 
ture  with  a  puny  mofa  1  L  I  n"^^  T"  ''°"""°"  "«■ 
deers'horns  wii,  ohl  hi    .  .u^r'  '^'"  ^'^'^'  ^^'^re 

them;  and  th^f was    ^  'rr  J  of  fh;  ''  '''  '""^  ""^^ 
giest  garments   wbinh   n,      7^    ,  ^^  '■°'''"^^«'  '''"'^  ^hag- 

region!  ofperp;  a  Snr'"Rf  ''^'^  ""'  '''''  ^''^'^  ^Y  th« 
mature,  goKn"e   2      ^^'^  T""'"  ^'^''''y' "^^'^  Sood- 

famiharyofafriendlvrnll  J  •  ul  ^'^^Y  ^^^^^'^  as 
deep  in  the  fore  t  at  iff"  k"^  ^  ''^  °'  '''^^'  ™'^«' 
and'as  for  wSk^ys/bearsT       '  "'^  "™"  *'^  '''''' ' 

is  tt:  mi,:ri  TJ:s::r  ^"'^"  ^  ^•^^^'•-'^'  ^^^^ 

had  approaeh;d  Xu  myteirrat^'r'"""'  "'^''^'^ 
restriction  put  upon  my  eyesiKT.  '<•  "'=''«""' «f  the 
opened  to  my  view  onlv  TJr  ^,  ^"'^^^  *''^^«'  ^hich 
I  therefore  pr^esseTr^ni  at  lenX'  '"'J-'"^^^^'  ^"'«- 

ground  whL  the  w^bltXlT^X  f^;:  T"  ""T 
ram  w  th  violence  an,l  «n«o  ,.,    ""s'y  m  my  face,  drove  the 

now  reached,  as  AfterS;^  '"'\  ""f  ''  '''^  «^'"-     '  ^ad 

through  the  mo^:^r:^'z^:^^^  °'?^  p^- 

generally  blows  with  cons  W.  !  f  '  .''^'^  '^^  ''''"d 
north  or  south,  as  tWh  a  n,n     ,      ""'  ""^  "'^^^^^  ^'^^er 


150 


THE  WHITB  HILLS. 


accustomed  to  the  saddle ;  and  I  did  not  at  first  discover  the 
cause.     We  were  near  the  Ammonoosuc,  here  a  small  but 
headlong  stream ;  and  the  current  was  dashing  down  a  ledge 
of  rocks  a  little  on  the  right.     My  ride  was  such  as  doubly 
to  prepare  me  for  the  enjoyment  of  a  siielter  and  society ; 
but  the  beauty  of  Crawford's  meadow,  as  the  storm  ceased, 
and  the  sun  shone  upon  it  through  the  breaking  clouds,  made 
me  linger  to  enjoy  the  first  scene  of  beauty  in  the  White 
Mountains  which  is  presented  to  the  traveller  on  this  route. 
A  broad  and  level  lawn  now  spread  before  me,  covered  with 
that  rich  green  which  the  herbage  here  receives  in  the  short 
but  rapid  summer ;  and  the  solitary  dwelling  of  the  hardy 
mountaineer  appeared,  with  a  few  cattle  straying  here  and 
there.     Tlie  whole  was  apparently  shut  out  from  the  world 
by  a  wall  of  immense  mountains  in  front  and  on  either  side, 
whose  mantle  of  foliage  extended  nearly  to  tlieir  summits, 
but  left  several  bald  peaks  spotted  with  snow,  where  the 
elevation  forbade  a  leaf  to   put  forth,  or  a  root  of  the 
smallest  herb  to  penetrate.     This  scene  seemed  so  attract- 
ive, that  I  was  constrained  to  inquire  why  there  were  not 
more  inhabitants.    The  reply  presented  a  sad  reverse.    For 
two  months  only  out  of  the  twelve  are  the  mountains  ac- 
cessible, so  that  few  travellers  visit  tl»e  place  for  pleasure. 
The  meadow,  with  all  its  beauty,  will  scarcely  yield  any 
thing  in  the  short  summer,  so  that  grain  must  be  obtained 
elsewhere ;  and,  in  short,  the  place  would  probably  have 
been  abandoned  long  ago  but  fo/  the  winter  travelling,  which 
makes  the  house  the  resort  of  many  country  people,  with  their 
loaded  sleighs  in  going  and  returning  from  Portland  and 
other  places  on  the  coast.     The  valley,  an  object  of  attrac- 
tion only  during  a  few  weeks,  and  a  great  thoroughfare  but  in 
the  winter,  has  its  alternations  of  liveliness  and  almost  en- 
tire solitude,  which  are  looked  upon  by  the  few  inhabitants 
of  the  spot  with  great  interest,  and  supply  themes  for  many 
an  entertaining  tale  of  woodsmen    and  travellers,  sleigh- 
drivers'  adventures,  and  the  habits  and  pranks  of  wild  beasts. 
It  was  arranged  that  a  party  of  travellers,  assembled  at 
the  house,  sliould  set  out  at  an  early  hour  for  the  ascent 
of  Mount  AVashington. 


B  HILLS. 

I  (lid  not  at  first  discover  the 
imonoosuc,  here  a  small  but 
3111  was  dashing  down  a  ledge 
My  ride  was  such  as  doubly 
nt  of  a  siielter  and  society; 
loadow,  as  the  storm  ceased, 
igh  the  breaking  (;louds,  made 
iccne  of  beauty  in  the  White 
to  the  traveller  on  this  route, 
pread  before  me,  covered  with 
age  here  receives  in  the  short 
olitary  dwelling  of  the  hardy 
few  cattle  straying  here  and 
ently  shut  out  from  the  world 
lis  in  front  and  on  either  side, 
nded  nearly  to  tlieir  summits, 
ipotted  with  snow,  where  the 
put  forth,  or  a  root  of  the 
rhis  scene  seemed  so  attract- 
I  inquire  why  there  were  not 
presented  a  sad  reverse.    For 
welve  are  the  mountains  ac- 
R  visit  the  place  for  pleasure. 
eauty,  will  scarcely  yield  any 
10  that  grain  must  be  obtained 
e  place  would  probably  have 
fo.  the  winter  travelling,  which 
many  country  people,  with  their 
returning  from  Portland  and 
rhe  valley,  an  object  of  attrac- 
and  a  great  thoroughfare  but  in 
s  of  liveliness  and  almost  en- 
ed  upon  by  the  few  inhabitants 
t,  and  supply  themes  for  many 
dsinen    and  travellers,  slcigh- 
abits  and  pranks  of  wild  beasts, 
rty  of  travellers,  assembled  at 
an  early  hour  for  the  ascent 


161 


CHAPTER  XX. 


Notch-Old  CraxvforU's-B^rtiet"""  ^''"^  ""'  Snmmit-Tbv 

that  tlfe  timThL^a^ivUr t.  ,^t:£^^^^^ 

wt.e  ot  the  most  eievat  no-  natnm      w  'i-«t-ciuiga 

buried  in  the  forpsf  fnii!,      "  • ,  ^^®  '^'"'^  ^oon  after 

»eemed  .o  „,  more  like  i„„i„c,  j,a„  „„  „  "  '„"&  ^  ">«" 

foUowmg  up  the  wild  valley  through  whichU  e^mZ^  '^ 
pursues  its  early  foursp  lit«  »   r  Ammonoosuc 

lovely  and  sechfd  d  L  fof  home" tr  t''  ITf^'^ 
future  life  will  bear  it.  to  rl^n  nolore  D^n.  t^/'^ 
mendous  flood  of  isar?    ti,;.  i         '""^''-     i^urmg  the  tre- 

We  passed  the  little  spot  where  our  .rni^n  „„ 
to  await  thf.  rUin,,  „f  .u       ""'^'^c  our  guide  once  stopped 


il 


i 

ii 


j> 


152 


THE  WHITE  HILtS. 


were  more  rapidly  ascending  than  vvc  supposed  all  this  time, 
our  rapid  gait  gave  us  considerahlc  fatigue ;  and  when  we 
approached  tlie  little  shelters,  thatched  wi.li  birch-hark, 
stuiFcd  with  green  moss,  and  strewn  with  spruce  brandies, 
where  wc  were  to  breakfast,  wc  were  much  cheered  at  the 
prospect  of  repose, 

A  roaring  fire  was  soon  kindled  between  the  two  wig- 
wams ;  and,  stretchuig  ourselves  upon  tiie  green  and  sloping 
couch  which  had  been  prepared  for  the  weary,  in  the  warmth 
of  the  blaze,  and  amid  the  delightful  perfume  of  the  ever- 
green leaves  beneath  us,  we  fell  asleep.  When  we  awoke, 
it  was  broad  daylight,  even  in  that  valley,  of  such  apparently 
immeasurable  depth ;  and  after  a  hasty  meal  of  dry  bread 
and  Hitches  of  salt-meat,  roasted  in  the  fiame,  on  forked 
sticks,  with  the  best  of  all  sauces  and  the  highest  spirits, 
we  prepared  for  the  most  arduous  part  of  our  expedition, 
which  now  lay  before  us.  Nature  seemed  rousing  from  her 
slumbers  ;  and  in  such  a  region  motion  and  repose  arc 
alike  sublime.  Millions  of  tree-tops  gently  undulated  m  the 
rising  breeze,  and  the  ceaseless  sound  of  the  rushing  brook 
was  heard  in  the  pauses  of  our  conversation.  Compared 
with  the  large  trunks  of  the  trees  around,  and  especially 
with  the  enormous  mountains,  whose  lofty  society  we  were 
seeking,  our  huts,  ourselves,  and  our  worldly  interests 
shrunk  into  insects'  concerns. 

The  ascent  of  Mount  Washington  is  a  veiy  laborious 
task,  although  a  great  part  of  its  elevation  above  the  sea 
and  of  Comieclicut  River,  is  of  course  surmounted  before 
arriving  at  its  base.  I  was  not  prepared  to  find  this  noble 
eminence  rising  so  abruptly  as  it  does  from  the  side  on 
which  we  approached  it.  After  leaving  our  resting-place  a 
few  yards,  and  entering  a  thicker  shade  of  forest  trees,  we 
began  a  steep  ascent,  over  a  surface  broken  by  roots,  and 
occasionally  by  loose  stones,  which  soon  checked  the  ardour 
with  which  we  commenced  it.  It  was  nearly  as  steep,  I 
believe,  as  the  side  of  the  cone  of  Vesuvius,  though  not  so 
smooth.  How  little  do  we  think,  in  our  towns  and  cities, 
in  the  midst  of  our  indolent  hauits,  of  what  the  muscles  are 
»ble  to  perform,  or  of  the  pleasure  we  may  derive  from  their 


B  niLts. 

an  wc  supposed  all  thia  timCj 
>ral)lc  fatigue  ;  and  wlien  we 
i,  thatched  wi.li  birch-hark, 
ilrewn  with  spruce  brandies, 
Nc  were  much  cheered  at  the 

ndlcd  between  the  two  wig- 
es  upon  tlie  green  and  sloping 
d  for  the  weary,  in  the  warmth 
ightful  perfume  of  the  ever- 
ill  asleep.  When  we  awoke, 
hat  valley,  of  such  apparently 
?r  a  hasty  meal  of  dry  bread 
sted  in  the  flame,  on  forked 
auces  and  the  highest  spirits, 
luous  part  of  our  expedition, 
ture  seemed  rousing  from  her 
gion  motion  and  repose  arc 
!e-tops  gently  undulated  in  the 
ss  sound  of  the  rushing  brook 
)ur  conversation.  Compared 
trees  around,  and  especially 
,  whose  lofty  society  we  were 
I,  and   our   worldly  interests 

ishington  is  a  very  laborious 
f  its  elevation  above  the  sea 

of  course  surmounted  before 
not  prepared  to  find  this  noble 

as  it  does  from  the  side  on 
'ter  leaving  our  resting-place  a 
:ker  shade  of  forest  trees,  we 

surface  broken  by  roots,  and 
which  soon  checked  the  ardour 
it.  It  was  nearly  as  steep,  I 
ne  of  Vesuvius,  though  not  so 
liink,  in  our  towns  and  cities, 
lauits,  of  what  the  muscles  are 
asure  we  may  derive  from  theii 


ASCKNT  OF  MOUNT  WASHINOTON. 


say,  coffitatino-  whnf  n..™i^  Y''"'^"^  "ad  often  bent,  I  dare 
^vhich  they  hfd  b  e„  St™  hed'"''  /"""^  "^  debility "; 
nauseous  dn,gthe7shouiri,  !'''°"  '^''"  "^e-i^.  and  what 
spirit  of  luxty.  ^  S.W  ikSV."  "7  ""^^  """'^  ">«  «viJ 
I^each,  after  se.Lg  1  L  shro.l T'  ^"f  '?'"  '^'  ^'^^'"S 
H-ont,  over  MoneslTroo  s  a,"l  ^  '"^''^''''«'»y«.  ««  they 
-insensible  ^/^U^J^Vl^Z:;^''  ^^i'-"'^' 

Jange  which  /e  no.icll  rsin  h'  th.  "  "•  ^''^  «"' 
J^'Hs  was  instantaneous.  We  eft  '/^^^'^''^^''''le trees, 
step,  the  deciduous  forest  and  nlV  ''V  ''''^  "^  single 
nearly  equal  in  size  t  th  ek  er'tfL'''',.^''  '^"  ^•"' 
hesc   for  a  few   minutes     thrv  l!:  '''""""^  ^"'ong 

-hed    in    size    one-h    f  'o;''!,^;*^''^'"^,   ^'"'''^"'y  clirnin! 

reared  entirely,  leaving  Levposa' to  Th  T'^^'^  ^'^''P- 
«louded  sun.  Our  guide  now  eluL  '  ^'"^  "^  »"  »  '- 
steps;  ''UtwcdidnoffuUyapLS^^  "?  '«  look  to  our 
'"g.  u,u.l  we  had  two  or  three  tTmes  sir  f  '^^"^  ''''^^ 
deep  crevices  between  the  Lse'  '"''"'  ''""  ^«°t  into 
treading,  concealed  by  ZkeZJrZVV'^"'^  ^«  ""^re 
now  the  only  vegetable  n7n  T.-^"  ''"'^'"'  ^^'"eh  were 

these  gradual^  b^^neX  ^slr  Tt  tf^"  ^'"'""^^ 
Jiad  disappeared  tliat  we  could  wflL  I  k  ""' "'"'^  "^^y 
surface  iiad  ere  this  h^nL  "'"''  security.     7'j,e 

o\  the  rocks.  irmi;;re";rtffe' '"  ^  '^'^^  ''- 

edges,  rendered  the  passagr^tTl  lar    n  ""^^i  P°'"'«  '-^"d 
than  we  could  have  desirT  "'^^"«"«' and  more  slow 

wh^::^;;.::;  r^;;!!!--"^- ^^y  colon. 

we  had  reached  he  point    vpr       ,    ''  ^"''^"'^^i  ^ut  when 


154 


THE  WHITE  HILIS. 


to  say  with  respect,  that  Mount  Washinjrton  had  some  claim 
to  its  name.  Indeed,  when  we  he^an  to  perceive  tliat  wc 
were  already  above  the  inferior  summits,  nan-cd  after  several 
of  the  other  Presidents,  which  had  appeared  so  great  from 
below  and  at  a  distance,  we  felt  that  we  were  in  tlie  resrioii 
of  real  exaltation;  and  although  Washington  was  still  above 
tis,  could  'ook  down  upon  Adams,  Jefferson,  Madison, 
Monroe,  and  what  not. 

When  we  find  a  spot  where  man  cannot  exist,  we  want 
to  see  what  can ;  and  I  began  to  look  round  for  any  thing 
with  legs.  Black  flies,  of  course,  like  volunteer  jurymen, 
will  not  stay  where  the  absence  of  mankind /loes  not  allow 
them  to  find  employment.  Nothing  with  life  could  1  catch 
or  see  but  one  miserable  black  bug. 

One  of  the  earliest  accounts  of  the  ascent  of  this  noble 
eminence  which  I  ever  read  represented,  I  recollect,  that 
the  summit  was  scattered  with  fragments  of  the  limbs  of 
pine  or  hemlo(!k  trees,  bleached  by  long  exposure,  and  re- 
sembling stags'  horns.  The  comparison  was  a  very  apt 
one.  These  bits  of  wood  have,  no  doubt,  been  carried  up 
by  some  of  the  violent  gusts  of  wind  which  are  common  in 
mountainous  regions.  A  gentleman  once  described  one 
"which  he  saw  some  years  ago.  A  roaring  was  first 
heard,  soon  after  the  tops  of  the  forest  trees  on  the 
summit  of  the  opposite  mountain  were  bent  violently  down, 
nnd  then  many  of  their  knarled  branches  were  seen  flying 
in  the  air.  The  wood  found  on  Mount  Washington  has 
proved  convenient  to  visiters  suffering  with  cold,  as  it  will 
Make  an  excellent  fire. 

For  ourselves,  we  suffered  most  from  thirst ;  and  could 
hardly  allow  our  eyes  their  expected  feast  upon  the  bound- 
less  landscape,  until  we  had  demanded  of  our  obliging  guide 
to  be  conducted  to  the  icy  springs  of  which  he  had  spoken. 
He  soon  brought  us  to  a  hole  in  the  rocks,  where,  only  three 
or  four  feet  down,  we  saw  a  small  bed  of  ice,  which  was 
slowly  trickling  away  in  tears,  under  the  indirect  heat  of 
the  sun.  We  caught  these  pure  drops,  and  found  them  a 
most  refreshing  draught.    This  was  the  highest  head  of  the 


B  HILLS. 

;  Washington  had  some  claim 
0  IjCTdu  to  perceive  that  wc 
summits,  named  after  several 
had  appeared  so  great  iVom 
It  that  we  were  in  the  rec:ion 
rh  Washington  was  still  above 
Adams,   Jefferson,  Madison, 

re  man  cannot  exist,  wc  want 
n  to  look  round  for  any  thing 
mrse,  like  volunteer  jurymen, 
:e  of  mankind  \loes  not  allow 
iothing  with  life  could  1  catch 
k  hug. 

Us  of  the  ascent  of  this  noble 
represented,  I  recollect,  that 
;h  fragments  of  the  limbs  of 
hed  by  long  exposure,  and  re- 
comparison  was  a  very  apt 
ire,  no  doubt,  been  carried  up 
of  wind  which  are  common  in 
jntleman  once  described  one 
ago.      A   roaring   was   first 
of   the  forest  trees    on   the 
tain  were  bent  violently  down, 
led  branches  were  seen  flying 
id  on  Mount  Washington  has 
3  suffering  with  cold,  as  it  will 

most  from  thirst;  and  could 
;xpected  feast  upon  the  bound- 
lemanded  of  our  obliging  guide 
irings  of  which  he  had  spoken, 
in  the  rocks,  where,  only  three 
.  small  bed  of  ice,  which  was 
>rs,  under  the  indirect  heat  of 
pure  drops,  and  found  them  a 
lis  was  the  highest  head  of  the 


Vrrw  FROM  MOUNT  WA.HIN«TnN.  {05 

prepare,!  „„„el,c,  u  JZ  "  a„'d  ,aLT'  "''"'  "'  ''"^ 

moment  would  be  SlSS! '  f'^ '''"'"'" ''""'''^^ 
than  Moutu  Jefferson  Adtmsw'"'.  *  ^'''^'"^  "P  ^"^^er 
selves,  who  were  Sentrn'  J^"*'""^'"".  ^"d  even  our- 
from  Lch  otE  ;t:;/"'''"P'^'^  ^^'""'  «"'^  «'■'''"  concealed 

rorVeTsiTtTtttr/o'c?^^^  ""^-°-^'«  '^7 
however,  embkc  tie  ^etfT  'T''.'^'^'''''''^-ol 
"There's  the  lake"  Thl^f  u  fYT""  P^n«'-a«na. 
lake!"  exclaimed  Crawfo^LntVt".   'fT.'^   '''' 

SrSSSSSSS 

the  romantic  country  on  [hssS  'of  ^  But  dSnr^'"*  '' 

perhaps,  was  owhi  o  a  va^  and"botfo 'T^'T  '  "^'^  ''^^^' 
fore  us,  overflowinVN^^th  ap;l  r^'^'''^'^''-'"^''^^- 
caldron  sitting  on  .T,-!     .     ^  ,    "  ^"  immeasurable 


i 
i 


/^ 


^1 

.  '.I 

i 


;  P 


156 


THE  WHITE  HILLS. 


the  poor  insect  body  it  had  left  on  the  top  of  Mount  Wash- 

incton.  ,      ,.,      .   , 

"  Well,  there,  there,  there  it  opens  at  laM !    cried  our 
guide  once  more;  and  turning  towards  the  norlh-calstwc 
saw  a  vast  extent  of  country,  comparatively  level,  yd  with 
its  lines  of  fields  and  roads  tiirown  into  every  variety  ot 
curve  and  angle,  showins  that  tiie  surface  was  very  far  Irom 
being  most  favourable  cither  to  the  cultivation  ot  the  m)iI  or 
the  transiiortation  of  its  fruits.   "  There's  the  Androscoggin; 
don't  you  see  it  shine  like  an  eel  along  through  that  valley  T 
The  bright  course  of  a  stream  was  seen  dividing  the  dark 
surface  of  the  eartii,  like  the  white  trunk  of  a  silver  bircli 
seen  on  tlie  verge  of  a  green  wood,  while  its  iribuiarics,  less 
broad  and  less  distinctly  visible,  gleamed  like  the  branches. 
The  mountain  on  that  side  descends  a  thousand  icet  or  more 
perpendicularly,  ,is  abruptly  as  the  llock  of  Gibraltar  where 
it  looks  on  Spain  ;  and  noiliing  can  be  more  dangerous  than 
to  wander  without  great,  caution,  amid  such  mists  as  Ire- 
quently  surrounded  us.     Travellers  have  been  occasionally 
exposed  to  great  labours,  and  have  sometimes  suffered  mucli 
from  hunger  and  thirst  as  well  as  apprehension,  by  unad- 
visedly trusting  to  their  own  sagacity  in  visiting  this  place, 
often  so  diificult  to  find  and  to  leave.     A  man,  or  even  a 
party,  might  wander  for  hours  round  the  sides  of  the  moun- 
tain without  discovering  any  clue  to  the  proper  paths,  when 
the  vapours  intercept  the  view  of  every  distant  object ;  and 
even  if  they  should  reach  the  bottom,  they  might  wander  m 
various  directions  in  the  forest  below. 

Towards  the  west  and  north  we  had  opportunities  to  con- 
template  the  scene  at  leisure,  and  began  to  feel  familiar  with 
the  optical  habits  of  hawks  and  eagles,  by  looking  upon 
the  world  beneath  from  a  sublime  height  in  th<(  air.  On 
the  horizon  lay  the  Green  Mountains.  Distance  and  the 
contrast  with  nearer  and  more  elevated  peaks  seemed  to 
have  diminished  the  whole  range  to  a  mere  cornfield,  or  a 
garden-walk  broken  by  mole-hills.  The  valley  of  the  Am- 
monoosuc  opened  beautifully  to  view  just  below  us ;  and 
Crawford  pointed  out  with  interest  bis  secluded  dwelling  in 


I 

V 

h 
c 

fi 

fa 

in 

ha 

soi 

is 

tha 

agj 

hov 

and 

fati'i 

stro 

ing 

tion 

able 


HILLS. 

on  the  top  of  Mount  Wasli- 

opens  at  last!''  cried  our 

towards  the  norlh-pat«t\vc 
.'omparatively  level,  yet  with 
llirown  hilo  every  variety  of 
die  surface  was  very  far  from 

the  cultivation  of  the  soil  or 
"  There's  the  Androseoggin; 
,'1  along  through  that  valley'!" 
n  was  seen  dividing  the  dark 
while  trunk  of  a  silver  hirch 
cod,  while  its  iribularic?,  less 
B,  gleamed  like  the  branches, 
[-.ends  a  thousand  feel  or  more 
the  Rock  of  Gibraltar  where 
T  can  be  more  dangerous  than 
on,  amid  such  mists  as  fre- 
ellers  have  been  occasionally 
lave  sometimes  suffered  much 
11  as  apprehension,  by  unad- 
sagacity  in  visiting  this  place, 
to  leave.     A  man,  or  even  a 
round  the  sides  of  the  moun- 
lue  to  the  proper  paths,  when 
r  of  every  distant  object ;  and 
bottom,  they  might  wander  in 
t  below. 

h  we  had  opportunities  to  con- 
and  begpn  to  feel  familiar  with 
and  eagles,  by  looking  upon 
bhme  height  in  th<!  air.  On 
fountains.  Distance  and  the 
)re  elevated  peaks  seemed  to 
nge  to  a  mere  cornfield,  or  a 
hills.     The  valley  of  the  Am- 

to  view  just  below  us ;  and 
terest  bis  secluded  dwelling  iu 


EFFECTS  OP  IXERCME.  j^^ 

»hme  and  shadows  of  r"ou"rbv  ..  ^  ^'^'""^  «<•»«« 
pencl.  over  the  beautifur^tu^o  "'  r'"'  "'^''  d'"erent 
indenting  „.ore  emo  io.r.h'n  ;7''  ^' "'»'«  beauties 
one  bu,  a  spectator  could  ZyZl  '"''''  "'  «"y 

And  alJ  this  of  whi.-h  i  .  •^^" 

that  of  which  I  hlirlVri  S  '''^>  "  ""'^  «» 
«P«ak.  ail  this  came  through  Uevf  T'  ""'■'"P''"^  »« 
«f  he  eye's  pupil!  Creat!>n  F  ""  """"'^  """Jow 
'H'fe'hty's  handivvork;  tremetlu,  """'  '"'^'"'  '^  'he  Al- 
^-ha-ns,  ,vith  the  numb    C tiLrr'^'".^  '-  ^^'«"d<=d 

ramble  nuheir  presence,  "dJev"!  '^,''  '''"'''^  '<> 

forests,  and  vilJaaes   all  L.       V'  ^'"'"^'  ^"'^  "vers,  fields 

f >-  •'  .  now  dimSiv^'?  S^^^^^^^^^  'y  -  .g'ance  'ofth'e' 
how  mmute  is  that  .elescope  y^Z  1  "  "f  ''"'"'»"  '"''""•^  i 
f nJ  wliat  a  sentinel  mustT'  I  u  ""'"'^'-ful  its  power  ' 
^;-^;>i'ant  of  the  fabric  tre'LMh;;'^?''^  """'"'  'he  in-' 
Jfffht  and  admirat,;„  this  "'n!^'' ''"'^'^««>f«^  whose 
whose  ten,porary  use  these  T  "  ''^'''''^  ^^'"'^d,  for 
hound  together,  this  cuno„r  .  ""'  ''"'^  "'"^cles  were 
p.structed.and7r;rm  arr"',""  ^°  '""»""/ 

far  transcending  all  thatrjIseTrT      '''"''  ""^"°«n. 
A  night  of  sweet  sl,.,.n    \T    J  ^"  ^"^  ""agine. 

fatigties'-of  that  da;.       '^'  ^'^^  '^''  ''  «  ehildferased  the 

hardy  Ethan  Crawford  and  his  ft„"il^T  "'  '^'  ^'''^  ^"^ 
sorrel  horse,  after  a  senaritinl %  1^  ^  '"°""'«'^  again  my 
-  true,  but  which  bTblTnZ  '  m  '^  ""'^  «"'  «^«y^ 
'^^'.  I  had  a  great  d  al  o  J,  "'"'^  ''  ™«"X  ^^eli^g, 
agam  at  the  chain  of  thought  wh  t'"^  ""^  ""'"^  '«  g^* 
however,  seemed  glad  to  cHhl  '  ^  ^'"'^  ^'^'  him.     He. 

and  I  rode  along  the  nJth     h  /'^"''"'''"'^'^  ^^'"h  me  again  • 
fatigue  on  foot,i^,t',^„^;2^^^^^^^^^ 
""•ongly  ten,ls  to  consult  luxurv       ,     *■'  "'^  •""»  ^hich  so 
'ng  influence  they  exer  Le  unZ  ^  '"'''  '"'^  '^'  ^^F^^s- 
t'onwhich  theanLa  "ormEted  t^^'r'-     ^'''•"- 

— ".  the  walking  r^^^ :z::::^ :--^ 


i 


r 


16S 


THE  WHITB  BltLB. 


iarrinir  the  whole  system.    The  chest,  braced  by  recent 
Bleep  following  real  fatigue,  and  by  the  breathing  of  p.'rc 
mountain-air,   felt    prepared    for    harmony,   like   a    hari. 
fresh  strung  with  wires  of  steel.     The  beauty  of  the  morn- 
ing light  on  the  sides  of  the  mountains  also  exalted  my  Jce  - 
ings,  and  I  could  not  refrair  from  a  song  of  praise  m  accord- 
ance with  the  scene.  ,      .    ,•       ,         u 
I  travelled  four  miles  along  a  level  road,  wmdmg  tlirough 
a   dark    forest,   without   meeting  a  living   thmg;  when   I 
reached   the   Notch  House,  which  str-nds  solitary  m  the 
little  Notch  meadow.     One  would  think   the  level  a  very 
low  one,  as  the  land  is  too  flat  io  be  well  dramed.     I  he 
Ammonoosuc  had  been  left  a  lillle  behind,  when  I  reached 
the   Saco,  a  mere   brook,  which   disappeared   m  front  ol 
me   behind   a  rock.    Thither   the   road   led   me;   and  a 
sudden  turn  to  the  left  brought  me  into  the  gate  of  these 
mountain!'    the   famous  Notch.     The  scene   chantred    Us 
aspect  tc  wildness  and  sublimity,  and  the  Saco,  breakmg  its 
classy  surface  into  foam,  set  up  u  roar  which  it  contmued 
to  make  for  thirty  miles,  when  it  reached  the  meadows  of 

Conway.  i       .      • 

It  would  be  pleasant  to  me  to  while  away  a  week  or  two  in 
these  mountains,  in  the  fancied  society  of  a  tasteful  and  ir.dul- 
eent  reader— one  of  those  patient  and  forbearing  beings 
whom  I  imagine  myself  talking  to  when  I  meet  with  any 
thing  truly  sublime  and  noble  in  my  travels :  but  1  know 
very  well,  when  I  coolK  reflect,  that  it  is  presumption  to 
suppose  that  others  are  of  course  pleased  with  what  greatly 
deUghts  myself;   and,  however  unwillingly,  must  hasten 
through  this  gorge,  and  leave  numberless  objects  untouched  : 
many  a  thought  and  sentiment  unexpressed.    In  going  twelve 
miles,  between  the  two  Crawford  houses,  I  lost  four  full 
hours  of  which  I  can  give  no  account,  unless  by  showing 
the  drawings  I  made  in  my  sltetch-book,  or  deserving  pomts 
of  view  whose  details  are  impressed  on  my  memory.     Too 
thoughtless  of  time  even  to  look  at  my  watch,  forgetful  of 
food  and  rest,  I  rode  and  walked,  and  stopped  and  stood :  the 
Saco  roaring  and  rushing  on  one  side,  and  Sorrel  plodding 
along  on  the  other,  or  gazing  at  me  with  the  bridle  on  lus 


nitLs. 

he  chest,  braced  by  recent 
I  by  the  breathing  of  p^^rc 
or  harmony,  like  a  hari* 
The  bfwtyof  the  morn- 
uniains  also  exalted  my  fcel- 
n  a  song  of  praise  in  accord- 

,  level  road,  winding  through 
ng  a  living  thing;  uhen  I 
hich  str-nds  solitary  in  the 
ould  think  the  level  a  very 
I  10  be  well  drained.  The 
little  behind,  when  I  reached 
ich  disappeared  in  front  of 
the  road  led  me;  and  a 
t  me  into  the  gate  of  these 
1.  The  scene  chantred  its 
ly,  and  the  Saco,  breaking  its 
ij)  a  roar  which  it  continued 
I  it  reached  the  meadows  of 

0  while  away  a  week  or  two  in 
society  of  a  tasteful  and  iiidul- 
atient  and  forbearing  beings 
ig  to  when  I  meet  with  any 
3  in  my  travels :  but  1  know 
ect,  that  it  is  presumption  to 
irse  pleased  with  what  greatly 
rev  unwillingly,  must  hasten 
mmberless  objects  untouched : 
unexpressed.    In  going  twelve 
wford  houses,  I  lost  four  full 
)  account,  unless  by  showing 
tetch-book,  or  deserving  points 
wessed  on  my  memory.     Too 
look  at  my  watch,  forgetful  of 
ed,and  stopped  and  stood:  the 
one  side,  and  Sorrel  plodding 
at  me  with  the  bridle  on  his 


r 


b 
1( 
tl 
tl 

8( 
It 

C( 
th 

ar 
to 


I 


3: 


JOVRNEV  TO  B08TOW.  jgg 

iipck.     Poor  faithful  beast  I     Ho  and  I  .li,l  nn. 

the  intimled  place  of  rent  lill  I.,    ■     .       J      ""'  ""'*<'  »' 

Harilct  is  a  nlca«ant  liitic  villnrr.   i..  ..    •      i 
eight  „nl,,H  h..|.,w  the  e  der  CWf.    ,     "'"'''''  "'''''^°'^' 

entered  uduIIM  as  if  tlSolS:^t;.i 
recoverin^r  ,hc  exercise  of  the  soei-.T  ^"''""'y ,»'  ""y  "'cr 

wc  reaii....  i,.  the  famii;:e  He  v  itr"  """"'<'  ''o 
^vc  are  depcn.ient  on  the  vie.„  u-  „  o  h  f  A.^  '"  ''"^''  '^'' 
our  dady  enjoyments;  how  .na,"y  i^^  J  ,  i^  ^  "^ 
hearts  are  ..-aused  or  incre-iHi.,!  f„/.i  ^''^'^'ons  of  our 

thetic  ehords  around  u'd  t'T^^r '"'"J'' "'"  "y^P*" 
bound  to  our  nla.  e"  hv  -i  thl,  I'  '  "'  'P^'''''  ^'^  »^« 
influence..     If  L.^atffedr  /?'""''  """«''  '''^'*''''«. 

-oh  a.  we  do  at  ^^^ Icti!::::^:^^^::^;' 

if  his  warmest  feelinirs  arc  as  strn„,,i.,  ."''''''' ' 

aounds  and  objects  fafnili^in^hrwi wtaHllrite  "'S  'k" 
lowmg  of  cattle,  the  features  and  th    vni^     r  "^"^  '^« 

undoubtedly  the  case,  wi^atr^ln  JThTo"  vThrrl'''^'  '^ 
has    een  able  to  induce  him  to  change  hi   habhsV'"^"^"''^ 

The  days  I  spent  on  the  borders  of  thnt  J.  !  '  ■  . 
beautiful  lake.  WinnipiseoRce,  a  wel  il^n'  "l"'^  ""^ 
leaving  it.  with  the  fJh  in  L  wa  ers  he  ^nvf  '^'".^  ""^ 
the  deer  in  its  proves  and  th^M  .'''""' «''°'-''«' 
these  and  the  seen!  of  c^ntttmen  act.  .  ""  'f  ^^°'"'  ' 
jented  along  the  Merrimr^rru  t^  ^^-reM:  "lIL^'^^ 
It  IS  time  we  were  at  the  great  centre  of  all  ,h  '^' 


160 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

Bo.ton-Environ.-LiteraTy  Institution—Mount  Auburn-Rematk. 
on  our  Intellectual  Machinery. 

Boston  is  situated  on  ground  favourable  to  the  display  of 
the  city  from  almost  every  point  in  the  vicmity.    The  sur- 
face  rises  towards  the  centre,  at  Beacon  H.11,  where  the 
dome  of  the  Slate  House  presents  a  conspicuous  object. 
The  acclivity  at  the   same    time    exposes    to    ^niew  not 
a  few  of  the  larger  edifices  in  different  streets.      1  he  irre- 
gularity of  surface,  however,  has  its  disadvantages;  and 
some  of  the  streets  are  inconvenient  and  even  dangerous  m 
slippery  seasons.    The  heart  of  the  city  defies  the  straighten- 
ing  hand  of  improvement;  but  the  quays  and  the  adjacent 
streets  are  of  a  size  and  regularity  which  our  larger  capitals 
might  envy.     The  wharves,  while  they  attest  the  natural 
defect  of  the  harbour,  bear  honourable  evidence  to  the  taste 
and  enterprise  of  the  merchants;   and  the  market  ,s  the 
most  splendid  in  the   coumry.     The  fine  white  granite, 
which  is  used  so  much  for  columns  m  New-York,  here 
forms  the  material  of  entire  and  elegant  blocks ;  and,  what 
is  of  personal  interest  to  travellers,  Trcmont  House  is  un- 
equalled  as  a  spacious  and  genteel  hotel  in  the  whole  Lnion. 
The  harbour  makes  a  fine  appearance  from  every  emi- 
nence; and  the  surrounding  country,  diversified  with  bold 
and  swelling  hills,  populous  villages,  and  elegant  country- 
seats,  offers  attractions  superior  to  the  environs  of  any  of 
our  other  cities.    Indeed,  no  plcasanter  or  more  varied  tour 
of  ton  or  fifteen  miles  could  be  easily  desired  than  that 
which  maybe  made,  by  hard  and  level  roads,  round  the 
circuit  of  Charles  River.     On  the  eminences,  Washington 
formed  the  line  of  troops  with  which  he  besieged  Boston  m 
1776     That  end  of  the  horseshoe  wliich  overlooks  the  city 


MOUNT  AUBUKN. 


161 


3R  XXI. 

lutions— Mount  Auburn— Rematk* 
:ual  Machinery. 

nd  favourable  to  the  display  of 
oint  in  the  vicinity.  The  sur- 
e,  at  Beacon  Hill,  where  the 
presents  a  conspicuous  object. 

time  exposes  to  vievir  not 
n  different  streets.  The  irre- 
r,  has  its  disadvantages;  and 
ivenicnt  and  even  dangerous  in 
of  the  city  defies  the  striiighten- 
but  the  quays  and  the  adjacent 
ilarity  which  our  larger  capitals 

while  they  attest  the  natural 
onourable  evidence  to  the  taste 
hants;  and  the  market  is  the 
itry.  The  fine  white  granite, 
r  columns  in  New-York,  here 
and  elegant  blocks  ;  and,  what 
avcUers,  Trcmont  House  is  un- 
enteel  hotel  in  the  whole  Union, 
le  appearance  from  every  emi- 
l  country,  diversified  with  bold 

villages,  and  elegant  country- 
erior  to  the  environs  of  any  of 
»  plcasanter  or  more  varied  tour 
aid  be  easily  desired  than  that 
ird  and  level  roads,  round  the 
On  the  eminences,  Washington 
ith  which  he  besieged  Boston  in 
rseshoe  wliich  overlooks  the  city 


m.,  thri'zTh?  eo^ '''  r ""'-'  "^  «""^- 

the  south-east,  viz  Dolchelr  S'"\"'''  '^'  ^'"'^""^  f^""" 
a  circular  fort.  Wriu  ^''^^'''J'  ««"•  the  wall  of 
ments  in  New-EnJIanJ        '    "■'  '"""^  ""^ '^'  earliest  settle- 

the  A.henLm,  Ic   /    Jf^'^^^'^f "^"^"^  Historical  Society, 
regarded  almo  t  as  in  t'L     7"'''^  .^""'^^'  ''^^'^  "'^Y  be 
though  not  now  the  IsfL'\"'''^;  '^  '^'  ^'''  «"^«^ved, 
Wh/w,]]  „ot  our  w^althv  n   "^^'  '"'•'""''""  '" '''«  Union 
fire  at  the  noWe  era'Sl^whM  7""' k '"  ""'^'^  ^'^'^«  ^^^e 
Bosronians,  in  foste  ^^^  earni  '   '  Vh  "  t  ^'?  '^  ""^ 
probably  superior  on  iL     uT^     ,  ^^^  public-schools  are 
i''  so,  of';ourse  o  :  ,  orheTs  t  thl "°"  °'  ^"""^"'^ '  «"d 
ever,  is  not  taught  as  e«s  J  "Tl"^-     ^'■"'"^'  ^ow- 

slates  notbeinSedfor^h  r'  ^"  '"'"  ^'  '"  New-York; 
schools,  alsc^fre    tit,  ^""u^T    '^^'  S"^''  ""^  hoys' 
some  inconveriLle^    Th  '       '"^  """  ^'  «"«"^«d  ^^^h 
ferior,  being  under  a  distncf  r"'"'7.-hool3  are  vastly  in- 
a  numerous  and  unLnaSlT?''?'  '"'^  '^«"«™"«d  by 
ean  hardly  be  expecTed  toti      "^^  °^'"'"'  '"''«*  «''^hom 
in  that  important  dtarrmenT",^"'^  '^'  i'nprovementa 
therefore,  you  find  thp  olTf   .      ^  .  i',^  '"struction.     Here, 
the  poor'lL:  S  Idren     et1":n1''^'T  -^-'s-with 
apparatus,  exercises  sLT„„  ^".  '^^  ™'""'  without 

telligent  device  to  reifn^l  "'  '"^  ''^''  ^"""^"^  ^"^  in- 
hle.^  In  Bos  on.  however  ?..°'f ''''°'-^°'"^'«l«^=»- 
of  a  eomparativelv  homo^;'    '"^''^''^  !^'  ^''^'  ^'^''^ntage 

prejudice  in  falour  of  e^S^  '"'^  "  ^'™"S 

the  New-Yo  k  S  tu„  '°^K-  ^      """"^^  '^'  *'"^'^^«  "^ 
if  they  should  SmUthe  ct  5'"^  would  befall  their  books. 

they  do  in  BosS    or  ,?      '"  *°  '^^'  '^'"^  home,  as 
leisure  to  speak  ?n  hSil       ^'•^^"'".schools  I  have  not 

roomtogiv?tt?o  tfTelr^TLfar'^'  T^^  ' 
dences  I  met  of  th^  no,,,    .  f    i  **  ^"t"®  of  the  evi- 

the  femairschools  '        '''  '"'^"'"^^  ''  ^^'^ion  in  some  of 


.w 


162 


BOSTON. 


to  it  is  disappointed.    The  spot  is  very  pleasant ;  nature  has 
given  it  seclusion,  with  pretty  sights  of  green  hills  and 
woods,  which  acquired  for  it  the  name  v  f  Golusrailh  s  v.llage 
years  ago.     And  nearly  in  the  state  of  nature  it  still  re- 
mains :  the  plan  for  its  improvement  iiaving  been  as  yet 
completed  only  on  paper.    There  is  nothing  to  impress  the 
mind  as  you  approach  it  with  feelings  appropriate  to  an  ex- 
tensive cemetery.    Walks  and  avenues  have  been  planned, 
and  little  signs  inform  you  that  here  among  the  bushes 
is  Cypress  avenue  or  Cedar-walk;  but  in  many  places  you 
have  nothing  else  to  lead  you  to  suspect  where  you  are. 
The  visiters  who   go   there  for  a  ride,  and   leave   their 
carriages  or  horses  on  the  borders  of  the  grounds,  often  in- 
terrupt the  reflections  which  a  sober  mind  would  wish  to 
indulge  in  on  such  a  spot.    The  plan  is  far  superior  to  that 
of  the  New-Haven  burying-ground,  where,  as  1  "ave  re- 
marked, there  is  a  want  of  variety  in  surface  and  shrubbery, 
and  little  seclusion  from  observation. 

The  example  set  by  Boston,  in  forming  such  a  cemetery, 
it  is  to  be  hoped  may  be  imitated  by  many  villages  as  well 
as  cities.    It  is  in  several  respects  an  improvement  on  the 
ancient  New-England  plan,  though  much  more  accommo- 
dated  to  it  than  to  that  of  some  other  parts  of  the  country 
and  large  towns  in  general.     In  cities,  public  and  private 
tombs  are  used,  and  small  and  crowded  burymg-grounds, 
often  at  an  expense  which  would   procure    interment    at 
a  distance    in    some    retired    scene ;    but   in  the  latter 
there  is  often  less  security,  except  strict  precautions  be 
taken.    Cemeteries  should  be  planned  with  reference  to  the 
living  as  well  as  the  dead ;  and  should  at  once  be  conve- 
nient and  pleasant  to  visiters,  guarded  from  injury  and  every 
thing  like  disrespect.   They  ought  not,  I  thmk,  to  be  placed 
in  the  centre  of  a  village,  as  they  generally  are,  nor  yet  too 
far  remote  from  the  habitation-  of  men.     If  they  arc  con- 
stantly before  the  eyn,  they  are  regarded  with  too  much  in- 
difference, and  the  ground  is  often  made  a  thoroughfare  and 
even  a  place  of  sport  by  children.     In  some  instances  new 
and  more  retired  situations  have  been  chosen ;  for  there  is 
no  objection  to  separating  the  burying-grouud  from  the 


t 

n 
s 

P 

C] 

in 
be 
m 


IN. 

is  very  pleasant ;  nature  has 
jr  sights  of  green  hills  and 
I  name  v  f  Golusmith's  village 
!  state  of  nature  it  still  re- 
»vement  iiaving  been  as  yet 
ere  is  nothing  to  impress  the 
feelings  appropriate  to  an  ex- 
.  avenues  have  been  planned, 
lat  here  among  the  bushes 
alk ;  but  in  many  places  you 
u  to  suspect  where  you  are. 
for  a  ride,  and   leave   their 
ders  of  the  grounds,  often  in- 
a  sober  mind  would  wish  to 
ne  plan  is  far  superior  to  that 
round,  where,  as  I  have  re- 
iety  in  surface  and  shrubbery, 
rvation. 

I,  in  forming  such  a  cemetery, 
ited  by  many  villages  as  well 
spects  an  improvement  on  the 
hough  much  more  accommo- 
le  other  parts  of  the  country 
In  cities,  public  and  private 
nd  crowded  burying-grounds, 
would   procure    interment    at 
d    scene;    but   in  the  latter 
,  except  strict  precautions  be 
3  planned  with  reference  to  the 
ind  should  at  once  be  conve- 
guarded  from  injury  and  every 
ought  not,  I  think,  to  be  placed 
they  generally  are,  nor  yet  too 
ion"  of  men.     If  they  arc  con- 
ire  regarded  with  too  much  in- 
ofien  made  a  thoroughfare  and 
Idren.     In  some  instances  new 
lave  been  chosen ;  for  there  is 
the  burying-grouad  from  the 


NEWSPAPERS. 

^t:;^::zt]Zr  rr-  ^-"^=  ^-  in 

»Pot,  in  laying  it  out  0"^^         ''''^.  "'  '^'  election  of  a 

^  Newspapers  arrirsoJ^^:"?nls  ""'  '"^^^^^"'  '- 
/ashioned  literati  mmni        I      ^  ^'"^^'  P^sts.     The  nM 

and  ask,  What  is  it  but  ZwZ^  '"  '\"^  ^"^  growwise  with 
"^en  di/Ibrent  from  wLt  Sr/.'^'l^  ""'^'^  ""'•youn; 
"ten  to  one  of  this  clas      ol  'r     '"  ^V    ^''"'^y  ^ould 
I  7"'Jsay,  it  i3  owi„;  io  i./r/"'"'°"  ^«  '^"°-' 
So  far  as  newspapers  haian  e  J  S  L''"'-''-  ''^«'^^«  'his. 
to  the,r  qua/ity,  not  to  the  facuha  tthlv         '  " ''  ^'"•'''"table 
the  evil  of  the  bad  is  DartJr  !»        ^  ^'^  newspapers  ;  and 
not  providing  good  eZ^Z^Z^  'f  "^'  "^^'-"n 
secure  a  good  public  taste     Thl  !    ?  *""'^^  Precautions  to 
papers  so  long  suffered  „ow  ^^'''' ""''^'- "'h^^h  news? 

!="'ninal:  it  was  at  least  shL''^'.''V"  ^'''  ^'^'^  S 
-pona.,ee  had  been  rr  ^et  ^  f' '^  ''''  ''  ^^'^  P-en 
been  taken,  they  would  have'h  u^''^^^''  measures  had 
"'"ch  more  good  and  far  less  evuTh    '"'''  '"^  ^^"'""^  o" 

But  as  fo.  ffettinrr  aln„  J         I         ^^'^"  "°^- 

and  the  probaVeVrr^  f,;::^^^^^^^^^^  the  present 

t'on.  Every  man,  at  least  in  Vh^''  "  "  °"'  °^the  ques- 
has  any  regard  for  h/s  charac^elt  ^"''  "''  '^'  ««"ntry.Tho 
any  curiosity  or  taste,  or  whtLraTr"  '""^"'^-^eTo; 
possessing  these  qualities,  musTh.  u  '""'  '''  ^«"ghter 
county,  State,  Union   Ja  ^^""^  the   affairs  of  thl 

week  at  least!     And\hTs  isIreT  'f  '"'^'^  ^'-  -ery 
-o  and  a  half  dollars  a  year      MliT  ""'  ''"^  «  ^^^^^ 
a  vast  amount  of  matter^nftn         '•'  "'^'^'"  «'»h  this 
;ehff,o„,  the  movements  of  r^H        "?"'  and  practical 
'ons,  the  growth  of  churches  the  1?^  "^  '^''''  ^^"«""»a- 
fact,  missionao^,  and  tempe  'ance  sT'"""'  '^ '^'^^  BiWe. 
^   But  to  go  further  into  pSar,  ''T'^'lf"''  ^'- 
nations,  the  effects  of  the TnL      ^  ^^^  P"^''«  affair  of  all 
y  "als,  the  opinion,  of^T;7;2' •°^''>"«''«d  indt 

The  people  of  this  countrrexeret  k''?  ^'^""'^Pheres. 
jver  their  fellow.men--n,Lro;h^»,"  ft'"''  '^^"««r«hip 
'^-  -kly,  a,  they  seat  th^lJvtV;!- ^I^i 


1 


184 


B08T0N> 


y;,' 


J  fc„i  ,t  tT,«  same  time  a  degree  of  self-respect, 
papers;  «f  ^  ^^5  ^  go"d  -  wi^  mfn,  however  distant, 
as  well  as  regara  lor  gu  ,„u„uring  in  iheir  various 

spheres  partly  lor  tneir  gr<i  ascending  mountams, 

liumboldt  was  scourmg  plains  and  ^  ^^"'^  ^  ^  ^^^.^ed ; 
in  many  an  humble  ^'^'^^f  ""J^^^^^^^^^^^  families 

and  tow-wicked  candles   ligh^e^d  as  the  J"™    ^.^^  ^^^^^ 

^  rSVrilr  C^pt::^  HaU.  adventures 

,.»,,J  it.     What  '^F^'f^^f^yP^ti  personal  in  their 
few,  if  we  excep    such  things  as  are  p  Marriages 

bearing  on  ind'-'^lr^^Trtrke^Lrup,  where  tens  Ire 
and  d.aths  induce  hundreds  to  take  hem  up,  w^^  ^^ 

attracted  by  what  is  called  'l^*^   «"g^/Ji,^;,     The  most 
^hich  have  as  "^"*'\«;ShLr8  are  generally  those 
virulent,  tasteless,  and  sottish  P^P«J«  ^^    f^^^^  J^  ^ften 
which  are  supported  by  some  V^'^J^^''^ 
taken  for  appearances,  and  "«t J"  read.  ^^^^ 

The  learned  must  consent  to  ^^are  in  the  burt 
charge  of  the  P^W-  ignorance  and  want  of  tas^^^./ J 

Rome,  and  all  one  circumstances,  so  differ- 

f "  i^tTlrmlt  mpoTtan  Vanc/ie,  of  knowledge  (I  use 
deep  into  tlve  mosi  impuiv  actually  sw  rammg 

6ranc/.e.  in  the  southern  «J"^^\  ^'^J^^J  ~ t^"ffi<^'«"^^y 
in  a  surfeit  of  science,  who,  1  l/'^'^'  "*;^  "    .    •    ^y^i^ty 


IJ, 


p 
p 
p' 

til 

qi 

a 
di 
or 


ON. 

time  a  degree  of  self-respect, 
)r  wise  men,  however  distant, 
be  labouring  in  iheir  various 
:ation  or  i.nprovement.  When 
ns  and  ascending  mountains, 
,n  was  his  progress  watched ; 
hted  as  the  farmers'  families 
low  the  columns  which  shall 
and  Captain  Hall's  adventures 

hen  we  see  the  paltry  and  often 
h  many  of  our  public  papers 
11  a  portion  of  the  community 
ly  political  has  charms  for  but 
ings  as  are  personal  m  their 
vn  to  the  readers.     Marriages 
to  take  them  up,  where  tens  are 
I  the   original  articles,  most  ol 
nality  as  an  echo.     The  most 
ish  papers  are  generally  those 
,me  party,  and  these  are  often 
not  to  read. 

,it  to  share  in  the  burthen  of  the 
ance  and  want  of  taste.     They 
state  of  things  in  Greece  and 
es  on  the  face  of  the  earth,  ought 
that  our  circumstances,  so  differ- 
ion  before  us,  must  require  a  dif- 
,  any  desirable  effect.    They  arc 
low— highly  respectable ;  some  ot 
sic,  some  history,  Hebrew,  Latin, 
here  are  those  who  ha.e  waded 
ant  branches  of  knowledge  (I  use 
ense),  and  are  actually  swimming 
vho,  I  fear,  have  not  sufficiently 
nvey  a  few  drops  to  their  thirsty 
e  idea  siilltoo  prevalent,  that  there 
.pt  the  royal  road!    Is  there  not  a 
icross  that  stream  which  separates 


nahant. 


16fi 


«n  .he  humble  s  eprnwlr,'  I  ""  '*"»'"«'  <° 

w.T  c.„„„,  ,0^1  ri^ert'Lti'"'^  '"■ 

the  important  DriiirinIo«  „«         uevisea  by  which  some  of 

those  who  mosTnred  them  for  LP"'  T  '^'  ^''''^'^  ^^ 
Have  the  Medes  and  Pe  sTai^an?;!.?  '"''  ?"'=*''=^'  "« ^ 
vidual  who  would  know  how  r^  I  ""^"'""Sf  every  indi- 
foot,  or  what  fiddle-s^ril  kT,  7?  k"""'  '^''^  «'«  *»  »»« 

cal  colleg'e  ?  If  theyt Tv  th'''"'''"  "^  ^'"^^  «*  ^  "-edi- 
wiU  be  set  at  noughri  trust'  sUll  m7'l['  "J»  J'«'-'«d,  and 
zine,  Penny  Gazette  J  Z  7  ™""^'  ^^  ^^^  ^^"""V  Maga- 
have  beguifto  app  a'r  Sd  al'' f?"'  f  P''''^^'^^  ^^fch 
this  pagl     In  tE  hings  ttn^'u  T  '  '''^^" ''  P«» 

«^yal  road,  theret^r  h^rS  S  ^^^  ^^^ 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

pre?en":ZgUttLC-/!r'""^''^^  '^''-'  °-  -a«t 
part  of  the  c'oun try.  tIZ  man"'""'  ""'  '"""  ''''  ''^'^^^ 
person  educated  in  our  f^I  .^  *  "'i'^'"'  """y  «  yo"ng 
time  introdu  d  t  the  octnTnf  f  'tt'  "  ^''  ''''  «™' 
great  are  objects  he  knowTnorhn"^',^  '  ^^''"^^'  ^^^ 
quisitions  the  sMv.vnZ  ,'  *'°^«'"^"  "any  of  the  ac 

a  misguideSValVw  0  S'S  thetlf  "J  V'^^^  ">«» 
child  in  the  way  he  should  «n»  u  f  ^  *°  ^""?  "P  his 

15 


160 


NABANT. 


neglect  the  search  after  intellectual  and  moral  enjoyments, 

many  such  a  parent,  by  bringing  his  child  here,  has  ex- 

%,  posed  him  to  a  scene  that  can  counteract  at  once  the  very 

principles  of  his  education,  implant  new  ideas,  lead  him  to 
think  his  parent  superficial,  and  drive  him  to  other  sources 
of  instruction.  There  is  an  appeal,  a  warning,  a  monitory 
voice  in  the  sea,  when  its  waves  are  dashed  against  the 
rocks,  which  affects  the  old  and  even  the  accustomed  mmd 
with  awe  ;  but  to  the  young,  the  inexperienced,  it  addresses 
itself  with  a  tone  which  enforces  attention,  and  makes  an 
impression  no  human  power,  perhaps,  can  ever  entirely 

efface. 

"  Unfall'n,  religious,  holy  sea !" 

A  scene  like  this  is  best  calculated  for  the  retreat  of  one 
•who  has  forsaken  the  paths  of  righteousness,  and  wishes  to 
retrace  his  steps.    Vice  never  chooses  a  place  where  such 
reproaches  are  sounded  in  her  ears.    It  is  also  one  of  the 
most  favourable  situations  for  implanting  salutary  and  last- 
ing impressions  in  the  young.     Scenes  like  this  are,  per- 
haps, liable  to  as  few  objections,  even  when  strictly  regarded, 
as  any  can  be,  for  the  establishment  of  houses  of  general 
resort :  for  as  the  objects  of  nature  offer  a  good  deal  of  at- 
traction, even  to  the  less  estimable  class  of  visiters,  they 
substitute  reflections  harmless,  if  not  useful,  for  many  of  the 
unbecoming  games  and  occupations  in  which  hours  are 
tisually  occupied  in  public  places.     The  man  of  business  is 
nci  attracted  to  the  billiard-table  to  fill  up  a  blank  left  by 
his  abstraction  from  his  desk  ;  but  he  seats  himself  on  some 
of  the  resting-places  arranged  on  the  most  advantageous 
points  of  view,  and  gazes  in  admiration  on  a  horizon  more 
extended,  on  objects  more  elevating  than  he  finds  elsewhere. 
He  indulges  in  leflections  ennobling  to  a  mind  borne  down 
with  daily  cares,  while  he  is  refreshed  by  a  pv.re  and  kindly 
breeze,  that  comes  with  health  and  rational  hilarity  on  its 
wings,  to  repair  the  wastes  that  necessary  labour  has  made 
upon  his  frame. 

Of  tho  sea  serpent  I  have  not'ang  to  say. 
Plymouth  I  visited  with  becoming  reverence,  on  account 
of  the  memory  of  our  forefathers.    What  a  dreary  scene 


i 
t 

s 

V 

tt 

tc 


01 

re 


IT. 

ctual  and  moral  enjoyments, 
ging  his  child  here,  has  ex- 
counteract  at  once  the  very 
plant  new  ideas,  lead  him  to 
J  drive  him  to  other  sources 
ppeal,  a  warning,  a  monitory 
ives  are  dashed  against  the 
id  even  the  accustomed  mind 
le  inexperienced,  it  addresses 
ces  attention,  and  makes  an 
perhaps,  can  ever  entirely 


t" 


culated  for  the  retreat  of  one 
righteousness,  and  wishes  to 

chooses  a  place  where  such 
•  ears.  It  is  also  one  of  the 
implanting  salutary  and  last- 
r.  Scenes  like  this  are,  per- 
5,  even  when  strictly  regarded, 
shment  of  houses  of  general 
lature  offer  a  good  deal  of  at- 
timable  class  of  visiters,  they 
,  if  not  useful,  for  many  of  the 
ipations  in  Avhich  hours  are 
ces.  The  man  of  business  is 
ble  to  fill  up  a  blank  left  by 

but  he  seats  himself  on  some 
id  on  the  most  advantageous 
admiration  on  a  horizon  more 
rating  than  he  finds  elsewhere, 
nobling  to  a  mind  borne  down 
refreshed  by  a  pv.re  and  kindly 
th  and  rational  hilarity  on  its 
kat  necessary  labour  has  made 

not'iing  to  say. 

ecoming  reverence,  on  account 

ithers.    What  a  dreary  scene 


THE  PILORIMS. 


w 


poor,  and  a  ran^e  of   ow  hiil,  '"''  "  "^'''^y'tWn.  and 

shore,  to  which  no.hnl      /         ^"''  ""  uniformity  to  the 

Ignited  «.atir:rr;bord^^:l^S;;!--'  of  the 
of  sands  are  found  thn  mart      7  ^'orida,  vast  tracts 

fon  explicable  onlVb;  X:J::ZvT'''r  '^P"- 
nature  is  the  country  here  Th?.  .  ,  '  ^"''^-  ^^^  '»>« 
san.l,  intermingled  Shlno^p         ""'^"'''t'ng  «"rface  of  light 

first  effected  a  1^1  LdP  /  °u  ^^"'^  »''«  ''''S"ms 
dition  says  they  fir "st'ennl.V'"''^  ^"'^^  °»  ^'"''h  tra- 

Theysa^  none'oftretE  ^t  fir!  Te'"'  "  "f  ^™"'^- 
ease  had  destroyed  all  t  p  !nh\^  '  f"'^  "  '^''^^  ^'s- 
round  several  ve^.rs  befo  e  Oil  Sir  '^'"  '""'  •^"'^"^e 
in  his  New-Englaidl  p  Z^  ^^'  '.*^'"  ^^«°''  '"^ntions. 

Plain,  a  little  in  t  "e  intfr  ^h S  C""'''^ '"  '^'^' '''«'  «"&ged 
for  the  want  TlXn?  lu     ''°™' ''"^^'"^J '^"h  busts 

accustomed  to  do,  t\Le        "  "  ""''  ^^  ^''^^  ^'^  '^^^ 

r^'^o^s:x::z^^^^^^^^     "'.".  -  the 

first  settlement  of  New-EnZ7°tnr   "''"'''''"  '"  *^« 
scendants.     On  this  snot  K^     ?    ^l  ""^"^  "^^  '^eir  de- 
mediately;  at  L  base  ol  tt^ 'T'-t''^  themselves  im- 
treaty  wiX  MassasoT;'  b  tveen  Uand '1';  ''^  '"'"^^  ^''- 
they  erected  their  fir«  dwe  I.W     ,         u  '''"""^  **"  ">«  ^^st 
tf'e  village ;  between  theToft  J  "^  ^  P^^'^^"'  «''««»  of 
bour  they  used  to  watrh  fo^.J'"^'  ""  *''!  ''^^'^  of  the  har- 
from  England;  northwardly  it  ""'^""'"^  '"'''^  ^^  '^ip. 
tablished ;  and  westward     l^T  f""  ''"^ "''"  '^"'""'^^  «'- 
show  the  whole  inlenee'^ftt  '     '?'^7"'^  ''^  ''^i^'''^^  «» 
wise  institutions  !    Xrf  we  Inl^  ''^""  '^"^  ?"'«  «nd 


108 


PLYMOUTH. 


not !  They  did  not  dispose  of  the  question  as  the  rf  pre- 
sentatives  of  Pennsylvania  did  a  few  months  since,  when 
the  bill  for  common  schools  in  the  state  was  before  them. 
They  did  not  decide  that  they  were  tro  poor  to  do  it  con- 
veniently, and  therefore  must  postpone  it.  The  Pilgrims 
were  simple  enough  to  believe  that  "  learning  is  better  than 
house  and  land,"  and  therefore  provided  for  the  establish- 
ment of  a  school  in  every  town  ot  fifty  families,  and  a  gram- 
mar-school in  every  one  of  100  lamilics.  Let  tliose  who 
think  them  the  poorer,  cast  up  the  figures  by  which  it  may 
be  shown,  and  then  follow  the  emigrants  from  New-England 
wherever  they  have  gone,  and  see  how  they  compare  wuh 
those  who  represent  dilVerent  doctrines  on  the  intellect. 

It  is  true  that  the  Pilgrims  enjoyed  great  advantages  for 
laying  the  founda^pns  of  their  society  along  with  general 
education.    They  came  well  provided  with  knowledge,  and 
had  little  expense  to  incur  at  the  outset.     Family  instruc- 
tion was  a  powerful  aid  to  schools ;  and  it  is  the  want  of 
this  which  renders  necessary  the  array  of  means  now  re- 
quired to  make  up  for  deficiencies  where  it  has  been  neg- 
lected.    Knowledge  may  be  transmitted  from  generation  to 
generation,  in  the  same  manner  and  almost  as  cheaply  as 
ignorance ;  but  what  a  difference  is  the  conse(iuence  !    Sup- 
pose that  the  pilgrims  had  chosen  to  neglect  the  means  ne- 
cessary to  secure  general  instruction.     Imagine  the  conse- 
quences.    This  country,  instead  of  sending  out  so  much  of 
its  population  to  all  seas  and  regions,  because  they  had 
superior  intelligence,  and  can  pursue  the  beasts  of  the 
forests,  the  birds  of  the  air,  and  the  fish  of  the  sea,  as  well 
as  commerce  and  various  other  kinds  of  business,  with 
greater  success  than  other  men,  would  probably  have  been 
visited  by  those  of  other  nations  for  the  same  purpose,  and 
ere  this  have  been  a  much  more  mixed  people.     The  great 
atreama  of  teachers,  of  all  classes,  which  are  now  poured 
out  annually  to  other  states  of  the  Union,  would  never  have 
begun  to  flow — sad  evidence  of  the  literary  drought  which 
would  have  parched  the  soil,  now  so  fertile  in  men  of  edu- 
cation.    If  the  arts  and  sciences,  pubUc  virtue  and  intelli- 
gence had  ever  risen  high  enough  to  send  out  enoigrants  to 


( 
( 
{ 

r 

ti 

V 

tl; 

th 

hf 

all 

tei 

no 

ih( 

Wa 

gai 

out 

thr 

tak 

out 


i;th. 

f  the  question  as  the  rfpre- 

I  a  few  months  since,  when 

II  tlie  state  was  before  them, 
y  were  to  poor  to  do  it  con- 
postpone  it.     The  Pilgrims 

I  that  "  learning  is  better  than 
•e  provided  for  the  establish- 

II  of  fifty  families,  and  a  gram- 
100  families.  Let  those  who 
)  the  figures  by  which  it  may 
emigrants  from  New-England 
d  see  how  they  compare  with 
doctrines  on  the  intellect, 
enjoyed  great  advantages  for 

jir  society  along  with  general 
provided  with  knowledge,  and 
I  the  outset.     Family  inslruc- 
chools ;  and  it  is  the  want  of 
'  the  array  of  means  now  rc- 
ncies  where  it  has  been  neg- 
transmitted  from  generation  to 
iner  and  almost  as  cheaply  as 
ince  is  the  consequence  !    Sup- 
losen  to  neglect  the  means  ne- 
atruction.     Imagine  the  conse- 
ead  of  sending  out  so  much  of 
id  regions,  because  they  had 
an   pursue  the  beasts  of  the 
ind  the  fish  of  the  sea,  as  well 
other  kinds  of  business,  with 
len,  would  probably  have  been 
ions  for  the  same  purpose,  and 
lore  mixed  people.     The  great 
ilasses,  which  are  now  poured 
ii  the  Union,  would  never  have 
I  of  the  literary  drought  which 
,  now  so  fertile  in  men  of  edu- 
ences,  public  virtue  and  intelli- 
lough  to  send  out  emigrants  to 


n 


FOREIOff  TOITRISTJ. 


180 


^as^wS^'ISirSl^r""'^'"^  '"  "-  ""J-^tin.ni-hed 
which,  lunvever  s  o"  ,v  e^I'TT  'T  ""'"^  'I""'"-. 
'hf«y  mcoN  arc  soon  S'^""^        '""'  "'«'"  »ow  when 

pleasure  in.     I  attr^o  filli  h.f '"^  iooi,,,,,,  or  take 
pretend  to  know  eveJy  tS     ImT'.'.^  "'^"''"^''  "»""«» 
t.es  possessed  by  some  of  those  LL      ,'"  ''""'^^^''"'  '"'•'=•"- 
tlie  United  State,  thmu^h   h?  n      ''f  '''""^"  ^''''°  '"'^ey 
things  of  which  none  oS,„':-   '"'  ^^''''''  ""'^  '^en  writj 
had  more  to  say     How  p  ea"  anl";:.  "7  '''T''  '  ""'^h.  have 
gentry!     A  pefson  vi  h£?.      1"     '"T^^'"^  ^«  '<>  »"«»» 
or  sleep  in  the  steamCt  and  ml     '  "l'^^'  "' '"  ^^^  '«««'. 
at  least  would  never  be  Sed    I,  r''^'  '^''T  ""^'"^''^^^ 
can  never  say  a  thing  of  any  Sc.^     k''  '"'''  P'^P'«  »«  ' 
everybody  who  is  IZ     ]  V       °'  °^J'"'''  without  having 
faetr  and  ct  never  T3t   ''"'  ".'"^■'^''"'  '"^^at's  f 
plain,  merely  sensib     neJsof  Jh"/  'f'''''"^  ''"'  »''«  ^^s^ 
true-very  g'ood-he  SksTuT''  "  ""  ^^^'  "  '^''«''- 

wh'irysiiir  ^it^' V  't'  ^''^  -^  -«- 

things  Iround  him  Zo  whaM  T'"'''^  *"  ^'  '"'^  'hat 
that  they  and  their  nethbo  hZ  d"""  "''", ''  ^' '  '"'^ 
have,  and  can  do  so  and  sn  »  ,  "'"'  "^^'^tly  what  they 
ah!  when  sharwe  equal  tL  En "."kT  "°^ '^^« ^  »"'' 
terris"_„o,v  and  the 'we  find  oSf  of  h  "^''''  ''''  ^ 
not  so  rare,  however  now  1  .h  '^^'^  ''"'«  ^«^1— 

there  are  q^ite  enoXTthL  X"ofT-r «  ^'''"^ 
was  at  a  hotel  in  New-York  som?  ?""'  '  '""«"««='» 
gave  out  that  he  was  eollectl  rem.  T"""'?  '^"'  ''^"'  ^e 
out  his  memorandumCrL  „  '  f''"'^tr^'^^y*««k 
three  persons,  who  apnredaf..?  t.  ^^^  ^'  *^^^^-  '^'^o  <>' 
taking,  were  o  obligfnT:  t  /et'T'''"''' ^'^ ''''  ""''«'- 
-  Of  respect  to  J.^  l^^^  ^^^ 


no 


MASSACHVSKTTfl. 


take  any  thing  but  the  choicrsi  bits  from  that  ffroat  news- 
market;  and,  indeed,  generally  took  the  tr.uble  to  stall- 
feed  the  cattle  and  pi(?con«  before  they  brou^rlu  tiiem  up. 
Under  their  hands  our  steamboats,  race-iorHos,  whale-boats, 
and  spinning-wheels  improved  more  in  speed  than  they  had 
done  in  years  before  ;  and  the  march  of  mind  in  the  United 
States  wos  etjuallcd  only  by  the  progre8s  of  the  pumpkin- 
vines  in  the  meadows.     Had  the  wonders  he  heard  been 
communicated  to  him  in  a  different  manner,  he  miglit  have 
questioned  the  statements ;  but  they  were  introduced  casu- 
ally in  common  conversation  ;  not  narrated  to  him  as  prodi- 
gies, but  mingled  with  the  concerns  of  the  day,  and  heard 
by  others  without  surprise,  and  often  without  remark.    This 
intelligent  foreigner  faithfully  noted  every  thing,  and  must 
have  taken  a  vast  fund  of  available  merchandise  home  to 
England.     His  friends  grieved  the  less  at  his  departure, 
because  they  cherished  the  hope  of  seeing  him  ere  long  in 
a  book.     As  yet,  however,  they  have  been  disappointed. 
Among  the  various  travels  in  the  United  States  since  pub- 
lished in  Great  Britain,  they  have  not  found  his  name  ;  and 
although  several  of  them  have  borne  strong  marks  of  his 
character,  and  were  to  a  great  degree  composed  of  materials 
like  those  which  he  collected,  they  are  at  once  so  like  and 
unlike  the  valuable  mass  with  which  he  was  supplied,  that 
they  were  inclined  to  suspect  he  had  sold  his  notes  "  in  lots 
to  suit  purchasers." 

It  is  impossible  to  travel  far  in  this  state,  and,  indeed,  in 
some  of  the  other  states  also,  without  perceiving  signs  of 
the  recent  impulses  given  to  public  instruction.  In  some 
places  the  old  school-houses  have  been  replaced  with  conve- 
nient and  handsome  edifices ;  evidently  planned  with  some 
regard  to  their  importance,  the  public  convenience,  and  the 
principles  of  taste.  In  others  large  buildings  have  been 
erected  for  public  lectures,  libraries,  and  cabinets  of  natural 
history.  And  if  we  had  time  enough  tc  inquire  into  the 
state  of  public  intelligence,  we  should  find  considerable  im- 
provements made  within  the  last  three  or  four  years.  The 
associationa  for  literary  improvement,  which  have  multiplied 
BO  rapidly,  though  varying  in  size,  importance,  and  plan. 


I 

I 

s 
U 

ti 
IJI 

tic 

tt ' 

CO 

in 

su 

tall 

dis 

coi 

to  J 

trai 

othi 

disc 

wot 

aboi 

opp< 


1 


JITT9. 

I  bits  from  that  ffroat  news- 
ly  took  tlie  triublc  to  slall- 
)efore  they  broufflu  tliem  up. 
ats,  race-'iorsos,  whale-boats, 
more  in  speed  than  they  had 
march  of  mind  in  the  United 
he  progreHS  of  tlie  pumpkin- 
the  wonders  he  heard  been 
erent  manner,  he  miglit  have 
it  they  were  introduced  casu- 
not  narrated  to  liim  as  prodi- 
icerns  of  the  day,  and  heard 
d  often  without  remark.    This 
'  noted  every  thing,  and  must 
ailable  merchandise  liome  to 
ed  the  less  at  his  departure, 
lope  of  seeing  him  ere  long  in 
ihey  have  been  disappointed. 
1  the  United  States  since  pub- 
lave  not  found  his  name  ;  and 
ve  borne  strong  marks  of  his 
t  degree  composed  of  materials 
I,  they  are  at  once  so  like  and 
th  which  he  was  supplied,  that 
,  he  had  sold  his  notes  "  in  lots 

ar  in  this  state,  and,  indeed,  in 
so,  without  perceiving  signs  of 

0  public  instruction.  In  some 
have  been  replaced  with  conve- 
;  evidently  planned  with  some 
he  public  convenience,  and  the 
ers  large  buildings  have  been 
ibraries,  and  cabinets  of  natural 
me  enough  tc  inquire  into  the 
we  should  And  considerable  im< 

1  last  three  or  four  years.  The 
rovement,  which  have  multiplied 

in  size,  importance,  and  plan« 


tYCEi;,H». 


ni 


«^«'*'ortl„.iroprration  olL'^^     '  ""'"'^'^''•'  *"  't  or  the 

°r 'ho  M,.oie  o.x..nt  i„  ;;v;,::x:'r  "''"■.  ^"  ^^^  ^^y^ 

^o  uuny  meetings  have  been        .     ^^'•'""'^■•'"ion. 
'"'«  i-rnml  and  ."o  „,arn,earJ      't  '"  '"""y  ''"'«  ««'•*«- 

;'-to  u.  value  are  sure  of  r  "^ S''  "'"'  "'«•"*'  ^vho  appro- 

'age  yeoum.  The  bell  i  rJL  L^.'"  °"'"'  '"  '""^  «  vi|. 
probably  ,ho  minister,  the  te  " |?J  "f  '"^«'"?-»'ou.se.  and 
We.  will.  ,nany  or  few  "f  fu'        ',"'"'"  ""'^  '^"'ale,  assem- 

I'oar,  yet  f;,r  enough  to  sLTT  ''''"'"•^^'  "ear  enough  to 
-;^K-ver  they  go.     Scme'^^o  '1..;:'f  "^.-'-'-  ''.e:: 
"e«.  g.ves  a  .statement  of  their  1         ."  """''  ■^"'•''  so'-'c- 
'nentson  t'-e  advantages  off  ,V.  "n '■''■'^■'^'  ^"^'  '=«'"- 
^'^;  of  a  similar  a.stciation      It^"       """^''  ^''  '^'  '«™a. 
^i>at  it  is  expedient  ,o  Zm  a  ^V"!""""""''-^  ^^««'^ed, 
committee  is  then  apnoime  ?,  r      ''"''""  ^J''"'^"'"."    a 
'«  perhaps  presented 'to  £    ame":;  '"  .^""«'""''«n.  which 
ubseciuent  one.    On  .he  a   ic LT nrobTh*"^'  ''  ''"  "°''  '°  ^ 
'  k'^''  place;  and  f  can  answeXt^^^^^^^^ 
d^close  both  talent  and  eloZ  e'   ai.    f  ""'^  '°"'«""'«« 
concerning  the  state  of  society  2,1.  1     ""^'  ''"''  ^'"'='' 
to  a  stranger.    I  have  wisher!  ,i  ?       ""'"^  P'*°^«  instructive 
travellers  who  have  o^^teh  W^?''"  «'' ''"^  ^^'^'l-nean i„g 
f  er  side  of  the  AtlaS^  "otic  'hf  7  ''^''  "^  "«  «"  t^f 
•Jiscussions,  even  in  our  mo     1    '"'""^'^  '^  '  ^'^  «"ch 


172 


MASSAflltrdETT^. 


"  I  had  no  notice,  KCMUlnnon,"  rrmarkrd  a  mi.l.HcaKrd 
man  from  unoll.e.  town,  ".hat  I  was  to  a.l.Ir.Hs  .1...  nu'Ct- 
iiiL'      I  wrtH  passing  thro.itrli  Newtown,  and  attracted  l.r  r. 
only  l.y  learnini?  ai  the  tavern  that   a   lye.'Uin  ^va.  to J-e 
formed.    I  will  mention  l.rielly  that  the  lyr.um  of  Ohltown, 
of  whicli  I  had  the  honour  to  he  secretary,  han  heen  very  uxe- 
ful.  a>»  it  is  Kenerallv  hciieved,  in  atVordinR  harndess  anmse- 
ment  as  well  as  useful  inslraetion  to  UilVeretit  classes,  par- 
ticularly the  youn^r.     The  funds  are  derived  (rom  the  sub- 
scriptions  of  member.,  at  half  a  dollar  each,  and  a  -luarter 
of  a  dollar  for  minors,  who  however  are  not  entitled  to  a 
vote.     The  ollicers  are  a  president,  vi.-e.|.resident,  record- 
ing and  corresponding  secretary,  treasurer,  and  lihrarian. 
who,  with  five  others  called  curators,  form  the  board  ol 
directors,  three  of  whom  make  a  quorum  lor  ordinary  busi- 
ness.     Wc  liave  collected  a  library,  by  loan  and  gift,  ol 
books  which  could  be  spared  by  the  members  of  the  society ; 
and  thus  each  volume  being  made  accessible  to  all,  is  as  it 
were  multiplied  by  two  hundred,  which  is  about  the  number 
of  our  members.     One  or  two  lectures  on  .hnerent  subjects 
are  delivered  every  week  in  the  whiter  when  the  weather 
permits, by  volunteers— professional  gentlemen  and  farmers, 
Lnd  occasionally  wc  are  favoured  with  some  friend  from  a 
neighbouring  lyceum,  with  an  essay  which  has  been  well 
received  there.     We  send  a  delegate  every  quarter  to  the 
county  lyceum  (where  your  delegates,  I  hope,  will  hereafter 
attend),  and  hear  interesting  reports  from  him  of  their  pro- 
ceediiigs  on  his  return.     Our  schools  have  been  much  im- 
nroved,  as  the  teachers  are  interested  in  introducing  every  im- 
provement in  discipline  and  instruction  which  they  can  ob- 
tain ;  and  I  must  do  most  teachers  the  justice  to  say  that  they 
are  true  friends  of  knowledge  and  republican  mstitutions. 
And  while  I  am  on  this  point,  allow  me  to  renriark,  gentle- 
men, that  we  have  it  in  our  power,  though  but  humble  indi- 
viduals, by  pursuing  a  proper  course  of  operations  in  the 
society  which  exists  around  us,  to  effect  what  the  govern- 
ments  of  some  countries  of  Europe  are  endeavouring  to  do, 
but  cannot  fully  accomplish,  with  all  the  means  in  their  pos- 
session. We  can  raise  the  standard  of  our  common  schools 


o 

tl 

tli 

IJI 

W 

al 

be 

ou 

spi 

als 

aid 

for 

jee 

fus: 

in  I 


1 


rRKTTH. 

n,"  rpmarkrd  a  mi«ltllp-aKt'il 
t  I  was  to  iiddrrHs  lliit*  nu'Ct- 
Newtown,  iiiul  attiiictcil  lnrt; 
II  ilial  ii  lyci'Uiii  wiiu  to  lie 

tlial  tlio  lycnim  of  Oldtown, 
•  Herrctary',  lian  been  very  vine- 

in  iitVonliiiff  harnilrss  aiimsr- 
lion  to  UllVfrcnt  classfH,  par- 
nU  am  (Icrivfd  from  llu'  sub- 
If  ii  dollar  eat'li,  and  a  iniartcr 
owcvrr  arc  not  entitled  to  a 
sidcnt,  vir'P-|)re8idc!nt,  rrcoid- 
,ary,  trcasiirnr,  and  librarian, 

curators,  Ibrm  the  board  of 
;c  a  quorum  for  ordinary  busi- 

library,  by  loan  and  gift,  of 
jy  the  members  of  the  society ; 
nade  accessible  to  all,  is  as  it 
ed,  which  is  about  the  number 
0  lectures  on  difl'ercnt  subjects 

the  winter  when  the  weather 
ssional  gentlemen  and  farmers; 
jured  with  some  friend  from  a 
n  essay  which  has  been  well 

delegate  every  quarter  to  the 
Iclegates,  I  hope,  will  hereafter 
reports  from  him  of  their  pro- 
ir  schools  have  been  much  im- 
lerested  in  introducing  every  im- 
instruction  which  they  can  ob- 
:hers  the  justice  to  say  that  they 
Ige  and  republican  institutions, 
n,  allow  me  to  remark,  gentle- 
power,  though  but  humble  indi- 
er  course  of  operations  in  the 
U3,  to  effect  what  the  govern- 
Europe  are  endeavouring  to  do, 
with  all  the  means  in  their  pos- 
itandard  of  our  common  schools 


lYCE'Twa, 


173 


I""-'  ynr,  c.uMi.Uv,\  IZdLZ      ';"^""""^"''  ''"r,,,^  ,hc 
'*«":  and  ,h,.  s,.„,    vcek  V  ^^'"7"  '"  l"'''l.c  .ns.ruc 

f'-'.  published  ;  ;Vi!r ;'■'•' ""  ""'""''y  "'"^- 

tl'"tit,.xpr,..sslvavoH  .  '  •  '^  "'Htruction,  ,n/or,„  us 
education  is  insclaM;  '''•';!'  ''"'"■''''"•^'  "'"'  ^^''^iou* 
"'•tin,  Mate  rel,  K^"" '"!'  'iV'"' =  """  the  n.t.Lts 
«l'o  Prorc.s.io„\w Vt  ,!7'  '  ^"  '"^'""•""Ji  "nd  .ha, 
rnidcred  rcspec  alio    '        '  '"  "^'.'.'•y '''T"^""^"'.  mn.st  be 

"«>w  be  «,,t;,„,.,  f..^  '  ;  /'^•^'  «>'«";"«  '"  Europe  n.ay 
done  but  toedin-ar  .  ,K  ''  "'"'  "«'h,nff  remain.  ,„  be 
emula,.„n  an,o„;  1';;,^;:  "'«"*?'''  ^'^  '«  --i'e  proper 

"  Make   tlio   rcsnliM  r,f  -,  i 
awakeninteres.hli^.    ;'"'-■"''«"  '">«^v„.  and  you  will 
«y«tc.ns  than  the;  I    ve    ^J  hl^^T."''"."''  """^''^^ ''«'tter 
raise   the  salaries  T/eT        ^  ""'""■'''' '°  "'^'''"' «''««" : 
«Pe.-t,andyoumayhae.tT'  ''"'";'"''"  ^^"'^   ''»«  "- 
of  their  practical  kLw,   j^w  ,rn:'-|    •^"  '"""^  P"'"'"*  '"^n 
exhibition  ol-  apparaturofbv  i  .      ''"'^™""''y  ^^'^ '»"o 
of  a  model.,.la  s  foTa  hllf^h      ""'^^  '^''  -nanagen.ent 
the  meetings  of  com„,o„  s  .f.    TJ'    ,^"''°"^"Se'  'herefore. 
»''e  county,  /br  thuTstm  ''."'''"'  '"  '''«  'o^m  and 

iibrary,th^^nforma  ;„;■  V'hT  """   '".  "'''  '^"^'^  "^  »'- 
We  must  remen.ber  that  ou;      h'T'f  "'^  P^«Per'yolal|. 
alone  by  the  good  and  tL  In   •  °"'f  '^'"'.''^  ''''''  ^^  l^*^ 
been  placed  on  the  be  t  Z     T,'  "'"''  '^''y  '^''^^  ^ave 
ought  \o  be  retained  prm\Ev       r""^'  .  ^"^  '"^^ers 
«pectcd  H.  hifihly  as  SnJ  n '   ^  ^      ^""  P^'^^'^ion,  and  re- 
al«o  to  be  puliLlsZZ'o^"''  "''°^'^'>'-     '^'*»^y«"?ht 
aid  which  ^s  know?  rthe  L7l?'T"''™'^"''■"''''- 
foreignnationsi8nevernlade    nb  "  '^""""'^'■'^e  with 
jeets  so  long  as  we  do  not  bv  1      "!'   '"  "'  '"^^^«'  *>''- 
iusion  of  usfful  knowled/e  .  and   nt.l.    /'  T ™"'''  ""  '^*^- 
•nhand  with  religious     Aml^    i,   u"'"'""'  ""''  S°  h""'! 
eugious.    And  mark  the  tendency  of  frequeut 


w 


174 


ROVTE  TO  PROVIDENCE. 


association!     It  is  only  the  extension  of  that  principle  on 
which  true  friends  receive  mutual  benefit  from  conversing 
on  a  topic  with  which  they  are  partially  acquainted.    They 
share  the  whole  stock  with  each  other,  and  at  the  same  time 
are  stimulated  to  obtain  and  communicate  more  in  future." 
By  such  remarks  as  these  the  individuals  present  feel 
encouraged  to  further  the  good  objects  by  such  means  as 
are  in  their  power.    The  stranger  departs,  but  some  one  or 
more  he  leaves  l»ehind  are  prepared  to  act  on  a  committee  to 
procure  lectures  for  the  winter,  or  to  solicit  the  loan  of 
books,  to  visit  the  schools,  to  collect  minerals,  to  make  a 
map  of  the  town,  to  correspond  with  some  other  society,  to 
collect  historical  facts  of  tlie  region  in  which  he  dwells,  or 
to  raise  funds  to  procure  a  philosophical  apparatus,  or  possi- 
bly to  erect  a  building  for  the  society.     The  meeting  has 
convinced  some  individual  at  least  that  he  could  do  more 
than  he  before  believed ;  and  more  than  one  are  no-v  started 
on  a  career  in  which  the  example  and  support  of  others, 
with  success  in  new  exertions,  will  probably  display  to 
themselves  powers  of  mind  and  means  of  usefulness,  as  well 
as  of  enjoyment,  of  which  they  have  before  been  quite  un- 
suspicious. 

In  a  country  like  this>  where  such  a  state  of  society 
has  been  established,  great  advantages  are  enjoyed  by 
parents  in  rearing  their  children.  And  of  this  many  of  our 
emigrants  appear  sensible;  for  some  of  them  send  their 
little  orss  from  the  South  to  be  educated  among  the  scenes 
and  moral  influences  of  their  infancy.  No  higher  expres- 
sion of  attachment  and  veneration  can  be  paid  to  their  na- 
tive Ian  \  than  thi»,  by  such  men  as  have  done  what  they 
could,  to  improve  the  intelligence  and  morality  of  the  regions 
where  they  dwell.  Education  is  a  staple  commodity  cf 
Massachusetts  and  Connecticut,  and  more  or  less  so  of  some 
of  the  other  northern  states.  A  child  here  is  as  sure  of 
good  examples,  and  good  intellectual  and  moral  instruction, 
as  he  would  be  of  having  rice  enough  in  South  Carolina, 
sugar-cane  in  Louisiana,  or  Indian  corn  in  Ohio. 

The  route  from  Boston  to  New- York,  through  Providence, 
is  interesting  on  several  accounts,  but  is  well  known ;  and 


ri 


V 


x. 


'BOVIDENCE. 

jxtension  of  that  principle  on 
lutual  benefit  from  conversing 
re  partially  acquainted.    They 
ch  other,  and  at  the  same  time 
communicate  more  in  future." 
e  the  individuals  present  feel 
ood  objects  by  such  means  as 
inger  departs,  but  some  one  or 
spared  to  act  on  a  committee  to 
Iter,  or  to  solicit  the  loan  of 
3  collect  minerals,  to  make  a 
nd  with  some  other  society,  to 
!  region  in  which  he  dwells,  or 
lilosophical  apparatus,  or  possi- 
le  society.     The  meeting  has 
least  that  he  could  do  more 
1  more  than  one  are  no'v  started 
cample  and  support  of  others, 
ions,  will  probably  display  to 
ind  means  of  usefulness,  as  well 
hey  have  before  been  quite  un- 

vhere  such  a  state  of  society 
t  advantages  are  enjoyed  by 
Iren.  And  of  this  many  of  our 
for  some  of  them  send  their 
)  be  educated  among  the  scenes 
!ir  infancy.  No  higher  expres- 
eration  can  be  paid  to  their  na- 
men  as  have  done  what  they 
ence  and  morality  of  the  regions 
tion  is  a  staple  commodity  of 
cut,  and  more  or  less  so  of  some 
!.  A  child  here  is  as  sure  of 
itellectual  and  moral  instruction, 
rice  enough  in  South  Carolina, 
Indian  corn  in  Ohio. 
•  New- York,  through  Providence, 
:counts,  but  is  well  known ;  and 


TRATBLLXRS. 


175 


besides,  if  I  should  stop  to  speak  of  it,  I  should  not  find 
time  to  complete  the  remaining  part  of  my  tour.  It  is  a 
dreadful  thmg  for  a  writer  to  have  more  materials  than  he 
can  use ;  an  evil,  fortunately,  not  very  common  at  the  pres- 
cnt  day ;  lor  if  we  may  judge  authors  by  their  books,  they 
generally  want  nothing  more  than  something  to  say.  How- 
ever,  it  is  my  chance  this  time  to  suffer  under  a  surfeit. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

Ncw.York— Hotels— Sculpture— South  America— Dr.  Sweet- 
Foreign  Invention*. 

Nothing  is  more  remarkable  than  the  rapid  multiplica- 
tion  and  extension  of  hotels  in  New- York  within  a  few 
years.     About  six  or  eight  years  ago  there  was  none  ex- 
cept the  City  Hotel,  which  was  considered  as  affording  very 
extensive,  and  at  the  same  time  genteel  accommodaiions; 
Bunker's,  Washington  Hall,  and  Park  Place  House  being 
on  a  less  extensive  scale.     The  American  Hotel  was 
not  opened   without  some  anticipations   among  idle  re- 
markers  that  the  city  would  not  support  it ;  and  yet  M'e 
ir.\"''T  *lf  ^^t'«na'.  the  Adelphi,  the  United  States, 
Webb  s,  the  Franklin,  and,  without  mentioning  many  others 
m  different  streets,  lastly,  the  moose,  the  mammoth.  Holt's. 
What  scenes  of  bustle  are  presented  at  the  doors  in  the 
travelling-season,  especially  at  the  hours  of  steamboats  ar- 
nvmg  and  dr-parting,  which  now  occur  with  but  short  inter- 
missions!    How  roll  the  coaches  to  and  from;  how  the 
porters  jostle  you  and  one  another ;  how  the  strangers  pour 
«p  or  down  the  side-walks,  with  their  great  coats  on  their 
arms,  or  pack  their  wives  and  chUdren  hastily  into  coaches, 
riow  you  can  instantly  distinguish  these  birds  of  passage 
as  they  stop  at  the  corner  before  you,  and  survey  the  houses 
above  them  from  top  to  bottom,  and  then  ^aze  at  the  crowd 


1^ 


NEW-YORK. 


nishing  by  ihem,  as  if  hunting  for  a  needle  in  a  hay-mow; 
What  a  difference  it  must  make  with  them  in  respect  to  the 
pleasure  of  their  journey,  and  the  information  they  may 
carry  home,  whether  they  find  a  bed  to  lodge  in  or  not ;  and 
whether  comfortable  things  befall  them  or  otherwise.     As 
we  pass  them  in  the  street,  it  seems  but  a  matter  of  little 
concern  whether  they  are  lodged  here,  or  there,  or  nowhere ; 
whether  they  are  treated  honestly  or  have  their  pockets 
picked.    But  it  is  much  to  them.     O  this  familiarity  with 
crowds  and  bustle,  this  packing  down  of  human  flesh  m 
cities  like  jerked  beef,  makes  us  in  some  respects  wonder- 
fully  selfish  and  indifferent  to  our  species. 

Speaking  of  hotels— Holt's  is  the  mammoth  of  them  all. 
Seeking  a  friend  one  day,  a  gentleman  traced  him  to  Holt  s, 
inquired  for  him  at  the  bar,  and  was  told  that  although 
not  in  his  room,  he  was  somewhere  in  the  house.  "  Fhat 
was  what  I  was  afraid  of,"  said  he—"  I  shall  never  find  him. 
If  he  had  gone  out  I  would  have  given  him  a  fair  chase 
through  the  city,  with  some  small  hope  of  finding  him :  but 
in  such  a  boundless  labyrinth  as  this  I  will  not  waste  time 

in  searching  for  him."  ,      v  • 

This  hotel  is  sometimes  called  Holt's  castle ;  but  it  is 
rather  the  castle  of  indolence,  or  more  properly  that  of  glut- 
tony.   "  The  refectory,"  "  hot  coffee,"  "  the  ordinary,"  "  pri- 
vate  dining-room,"  &c.  &c.,  these  are  conspicuous  words 
blazoned  on  the  doors  and  along  the  passages.     Labourers, 
horses  and  carts  are  often  seen  lining  the  curb-stones,  toil- 
ing  and  groaning  even  in  removing  the  refuse  and  fragments 
of  those  enormous  feasts  which  are  daily  consumed  in  this 
surfeit  factory.     A  steam-engine  puffs  and  perspires  all  day 
to  raise  aloft  tons  of  food,  merely  for  hundreds  of  trencher- 
men to  bring  it  down  again  ;  and,  to  judge  from  the  smoke 
and  hissing,  one  would  think  the  inroads  of  hunger  were 
moro  difficult  to  resist  than  the  current  of  the  Hudson  or  the 

Mississippi.  r    rr    «    « 

This  pile  of  granite  is  in  one  sense  a  temple  ol  "  i  aste; 
—and  what  species  of  taste  that  is,  the  spectator  may  judge 
from  any  commanding  view  within  some  miles,  by  the  broad 
banner  that  floats  on  its  top,  bearing  an  enormous  green 


■YORK. 

ing  for  a  needle  in  a  hay-mow; 
ake  with  them  in  respect  to  the 
ind  the  information  they  may 
d  a  bed  to  lodge  in  or  not ;  and 
befall  them  or  otherwise.  As 
it  seems  but  a  matter  of  little 
Iged  here,  or  there,  or  nowhere ; 
lonestly  or  have  their  pockets 

Ihem.     O  this  familiarity  with 
jking  down  of  human  flesh  in 
38  us  in  some  respects  wonder- 
to  our  species. 
It's  is  the  mammoth  of  them  all. 

gentleman  traced  him  to  Holt's, 
ar,  and  was  told  that  although 
mewhere  in  the  house.  "  That 
laid  he — "  I  shall  never  find  him. 
d  have  given  him  a  fair  chase 
3  small  hope  of  finding  him :  but 
ith  as  this  I  will  not  waste  time 

3  called  Holt's  castle;  but  it  is 
ce,  or  more  properly  that  of  glut- 
hot  coffee,"  "  the  ordinary,"  "pri- 
c,  these  are  conspicuous  words 
along  the  passages.     Labourers, 

seen  lining  the  curb-stones,  toil- 
emoving  the  refuse  and  fragments 
which  are  daily  consumed  in  this 
jngine  puffs  and  perspires  all  day 

merely  for  hundreds  of  trencher- 
in  ;  and,  to  judge  from  the  smoke 
hink  the  inroads  of  hunger  were 
a  the  current  of  the  Hudson  or  the 

n one  sense  a  temple  of  "  Taste;" 

te  that  is,  the  spectator  may  judge 

w  within  some  miles,  by  the  broad 

top,  bearing  an  enormous  green 


SCirLPTURE  AS  AN  AMUSEMENT. 


177 


turtle !  The  sight  of  such  an  ensign  is  not  a  very  gratify, 
mg  one  to  a  man  of  letters,  unless  indeed  he  be  suffering 
under  a  paroxysm  of  hunger,  to  which  his  tribe  arc  said  to 
be  rather  predisposed.  Under  other  circumstances,  he  ex- 
claims,  O  that  my  countrymen  would  content  themselves  with 
moderation  in  their  animal  enjoyments,  and  sacrifice  more 
to  the  nund  !  If  this  bar  were  converted  into  a  library ;  if 
tomes  of  knowledge  were  put  in  the  place  of  bottles  and  de- 
canters, and  tlie  halls  were  furnished  with  food  for  the  in- 
tellect,  what  a  splendid  university  would  this  be  ! 

I  have  been  visiting  some  of  the  artists  and  exhibition- 
rooms  ;  and  having  already  indulged  in  a  few  remarks  on 
pamtmgs  and  painters,  I  might  apply  some  of  the  same 
views  to  sculpture ;  but  shall  not  stop  here  to  be  very  par- 
ticular.  I  would  briefly  remark,  that  taste  or  genius,  as  it 
13  called  m  sculpture,  need  not  be  of  so  gradual  growth  in 
our  country  as  many  persons  think.  Many  of  our  travellers 
abroad  will  tell  you,  that  an  hour  spent  in  the  museum  of 
Florence,  or  in  the  select  society  of  Apollo  and  Co.,  in  the 
palace  of  the  Vatican,  would  be  sufficient  to  convert  the 
most  rude  taste  to  something  very  refined  and  intelligent ; 
and  as  for  genius,  did  not  Canova  grow  up  in  a  few  years  ; 
and  was  not  his  life  more  than  long  enough  to  revolu- 
tionize the  world  of  artists  ?  Even  in  the  most  refined 
countries,  every  new  generation  must  be  educated  to  refine- 
ment. We  have,  therefore,  only  to  use  the  proper  means, 
and  in  a  very  short  time  might  have  taste  and  genius,  and 
the  results  of  both  combined. 

It  is  a  slavish  doctrine  too,  that  no  artist  can  be  worthy 
of  respect  who  has  not  worked  in  Rome.  Let  not  our  youth 
be  discouraged.  Take  a  chisel,  i  ik  at  a  man,  and  make 
the  rock  look  as  much  like  him  as  you  can.  But  the  rock 
IS  hard.  Then  take  plaster,  or  common  red  clay  from  a 
brick-yard.  It  will  wash  off  from  the  hands  of  genius— 
Canova  used  it  often.  Set  about  gravely  to  do  what  you 
have  attempted  when  a  boy  with  the  snow.  Try  to  make 
a  man— it  is  not  so  puerile  a  business,  neither  is  it  so  very 
difficult.  You  are  not  to  be  perplexed  with  colours,  lights 
and  shades,  or  in  any  way  required  to  make  a  flat  surface 

16 


178 


NEW-YORK< 


look  like  what  it  is  not.  You  may  measure  every  part, 
turn  it  this  way  and  that  by  moving  the  b'ock  on  which  it 
stands,  and  alter,  remould,  and  begin  again.  Nothing  is 
spent  but  a  little  leisure  time,  a  little  at  mention  and  ingenuuy, 
for  which  you  will  be  more  attentive  and  ingenious  here- 
after, and  a  better  judge  of  other  people's  work.  The  clay 
is  as  good  as  it  was  before,  and  you  are  not  obliged  to  show 
your  work  or  to  try  again.  You  are  already  like  an  artist 
in  one  respect ;  you  have  failed  in  your  first  attempt  to  do 
as  well  as  you  wished.  Even  if  you  had  tried  to  chisel  a 
stone  and  broken  it,  your  tool,  or  your  skin,  I  dare  say 
Canova  and  Thorwaldson  themselves  have  done  worse. 

There  have  been  fewer  good  sculptors  than  good  painters  ; 
but  sculpture  is  a  much  more  natural  and  simple  art  than 
painting.     It  has  its  peculiar  principles,  and  in  certain  de- 
tails there  are  more  niceties ;  but  in  general  this  is  not  the 
case.     For  example — there  must  be  caution  used  to  guard 
against  any  unmeaning,  incorrect,  or  ridiculous  effect  in 
every  point  of  view  from  which  a  statue  or  group  is  to  be 
seen :  while  a  picture  has  but  one  side.     But  how  natural 
is  the  attempt  to  mould  a  material  mass  into  the  form  of 
humanity ;  and  how  much  better  do  even  children  succeed  in 
making  images  of  snow  than  in  drawing  men  with  coal  or 
chalk !     And  how  much  more  readily  do  the  uninstructed 
express  their  opinions  of  statues  than  of  paintings,  because 
they  feel  better  competent  to  judge  !     I  need  but  remark  in 
addition,  how  Mr.  Augur  has  astonished  us  all  with  his 
"  Jephtha  and  his  daughter,"  because  he  had  independence 
enough  to  act  on  these  principles,  and  with  extraordinary 
taste°and  perseverance.     (How  strangely  I  forgot  to  speak 
of  Augur  with  praise  while  at  New-Haven !)    And  how  has 
the  Scotch  stone-cutter,  Thom,  with  the  coarsest  stone,  and 
in  spite  of  his  degraded  subject,  viz.  a  low  ale-house  group, 
imitated  nature  almost  to  perfection,  without  the  benefit  of 
instruction  or  a  single  model. 

I  have  said  a  good  deal  about  taste,  perhaps,  to  very  little 
purpose,  yet  I  must  express  my  displeasure  for  that  shown 
by  many  of  my  countrymen  in  several  recent  instances. 
While  works  of  real  merit,  reconunended  by  patriotic,  or  at 


I'ou  may  measure  every  part, 
noving  the  b'ock  on  which  it 
and  begin  again.  Nothing  is 
a  little  attention  and  ingenuity, 
!  attentive  and  ingenious  here- 
ther  people's  work.  The  clay 
d  you  are  not  obliged  to  show 

You  are  already  like  an  artist 
led  in  your  first  attempt  to  do 
;n  if  you  had  tried  to  chisel  a 
tool,  or  your  skin,  I  dare  say 
emselves  have  done  worse, 
(d  sculptors  than  good  painters  ; 
e  natural  and  simple  art  than 
•  principles,  and  in  certain  de- 
;  but  in  general  this  is  not  the 

must  be  caution  used  to  guard 
jorrect,  or  ridiculous  effect  in 
ich  a  statue  or  group  is  to  be 
)ut  one  side.  But  how  natural 
laterial  mass  into  the  form  of 
tter  do  even  children  succeed  in 
n  in  drawing  men  with  coal  or 
ore  readily  do  the  uninstructed 
itues  than  of  paintings,  because 
J  judge  !  I  need  but  remark  in 
as  astonished  us  all  with  his 
"  because  he  had  independence 
inciples,  and  with  extraordinary 
low  strangely  I  forgot  to  speak 
at  New-Haven !)  And  how  has 
)m,  with  the  coarsest  stone,  and 
ject,  viz.  a  low  ale-house  group, 
lerfection,  without  the  benefit  of 
il. 
bout  taste,  perhaps,  to  very  little 

my  displeasure  for  that  shown 
en  in  several  recent  instances, 
reconunended  by  patriotic,  or  at 


FALSE  TASTE  AND  IMMORALITY.  179 

least    respectable   historical    associations   are  offered  for 
exhibition  almost  in  vain;  while  artists  of  extraordinary 
talent,  puie  character,  and  commendable  intentions  are  shut 
up  m  humble  corners  by  public  neglect,  we  can  rush  in 
crowds  to  see  a  poor  and  meager  composition,  whose  merits 
are  merely  of  an  mferior  order,  and  whose  tendency  is  of  a 
decidedly  corrupting  character.     I  speak  of  the  -  great  im- 
moral painting"  of  Adam  and  Eve  in  Paradise.    This  picture 
has  indeed  a  scripture  subject,  but  that  is  its  only  merit,  ex- 
cept  the  mere  mechanical  execution  of  the  figures.     The 
composition  has  not  tiie  essential  quality  of  a  just  conception 
of  the  scene  portrayed.     There  is  no  Eden,  unless  a  few 

coZ'ir  •^  ^''f,^^"^  •"=»>'  ^^P'-e^s  it;   and  no  one 
could  ever  judge  of  the  artist's  intention  or  his  subject,  if 
the  serpent  and  the  apple  were  withdrawn.     On  the  con- 
trary,  every  thmg  else,  except  the  nudity  of  the  pereonages, 
would  lead  to  a  very  opposite  idea.     And  as  to  the  intel- 
lectnal  character  of  the  piece,  how  mean,  as  well  as  how 
detestable,  appears  the  character  of  the  mind  expressed  in 
this  paiming!     Such  an  artist  would  make  the  Eden  of 
purity  a  mere  Mohammedan  paradise.     Nature  is  repre- 
sented as  destitute  of  beauty;  and  man,  in  his  state  of  per- 
fection,  as  devoid  of  every  exalted  and  ennobling  sentiment 
l-rom  woman,  every  intellectual  trait  seems  to  be  removed  • 
and  how  uisufferable  is  this,  in  such  a  scene,  where  the' 
acquisition  of  knowledge  was  the  grout  instrument  of  tempta- 
tion,_the  object  to  which  she  had  yielded,  and  which  she 
used  as  the  ground  of  her  argument  with  Adam ! 

For  my  own  part,  this  u.iserable  failure  of  a  foreign  artist 
will  ever  be  doubly  displeasing  to  me,  because  it  has  been 
so  extensively  rendered  popular  by  tiie  notice  of  men  who 
ui  my  opimon,  ought  to  have  possessed  more  taste  and  dis- 
cernment. 

Because  it  was  a  scripture  painting,  fathers  and  mothers, 
laymen  and  clergymen,  crowded  to  see  it,  indifferent  or  un- 
suspicious with  regard  to  the  impression  which  their  example 
wouid  have  on  virtuous  and  blushing  youth,  and  on  immoral 
and  debased  membera  of  society,  who  rejoice  when  evil 
eentiraenls  are  allowed  to  walk  in  the  sunshine. 


1 


If 


180 


NEW-YORK. 


■  Encouraged,  I  suppose,  by  the  golden  success  of  the  pro- 
prietor  of  this  painting,  Hughes,  a  man  o."  extraordinary 
talent  as  a  sculptor,  has  produced  a  far  more  decent,  yei  a 
mean  subject,  which  addresses  itself  tc  a  somewhat  simdar 
taste.  His  skill  ought  to  be  bestowed  in  a  more  worthy 
manner  before  it  receives  general  applause.  The  arts  arr 
infernal  demons  when  allied  with  immorality  or  even  with 
debased  sentiments. 

While  we  are  crowding  to  Europe,  or  sending  our  children 
thither,  to  run  through  the  great  travelled  routes,  to  see 
sights  and  learn  to  talk  of  things  because  they  have  been 
visited  and  talked  of  before,  but  generally  with  very  little 
conception  of  why  or  wherefore,  our  country  is  an  object 
of  well-defined  interest  to  many  intelligent  foreigners.     I 
have  fallen  in  with  several  gentlemen  of  eaucation  irom 
South  America,  who  are  looking  upon  our  society  with  par- 
ticular curiosity.     Our  southern  brethren,  in  their  zeal  to 
learn  the  art  of  conducting  a  country  upon  our  principles, 
chide  our  indifference ;  and  in  the  preference  many  of  them 
show  for  subjects  substantially  important,  might  make  us 
ashamed  of  our  blind  admiration  for  the  splendid  tinsel  of 
Europe.    While  we  are  reading  of  feudal  castles,  or  recall- 
ing with  misplaced  enthusiasm  our  visits  to  foreign  capi- 
tals or  courts,  they  are  asking  admission  into  our  printing- 
offices,  or  observing  the  apparatus  and  exercises  of  our  col- 
leges and  schools.     They  are  attracted  by  these  things,  be- 
cause they  are  in  search  of  means  to  effect  a  definite  object, 
and  one  on  which  the  prosperity  and  indeed  the  existence 
of  their  country  depends.  "The  apparatus  with  which  the 
governments  of  European  countries  are  carried  on  is  too 
expensive  for  them— it  is  entirely  out  of  the  question,  both 
because  it  is  too  dear  and  because  it  is  not  at  all  appro- 
priate to  their  condition  or  designs.     In  looking  over  the 
Old  World,  therefore,  they  see,  as  we  ought,  that  there  is 
nothing  appropriate  to  their  use  except  certain  scattered  in- 
stitutions, or  methods  here  and  there,  and  these  generally  not 
the  gaudy  machinery,  sustained  with  treasures,  exhibited  with 
pomp,  and  disguised  with  forms.     What  is  worth  knowmg 
in  Europe  is  generally  that  which  it  is  not  difficult  to  learn; 


)RK. 


he  golden  success  of  the  pro- 
les,  a  man  of  extraordinary 
ced  a  far  more  decent,  yet  a 
itself  tc  a  somewhat  similar 
bestowed  in  a  more  worthy 
eral  applause.  The  arts  arc 
[vith  immorality  or  even  with 

urope,  or  sending  our  children 
;reat  travelled  routes,  to  see 
lings  because  they  have  been 
but  generally  with  very  little 
'ore,  our  country  is  an  object 
any  intelligent  foreigners.     I 
gentlemen  of  eaucation  from 
ing  upon  our  society  with  par- 
em  brethren,  in  their  zeal  to 
\  country  upon  our  principles, 
n  the  preference  many  of  them 
lly  important,  might  make  us 
■ation  for  the  splendid  tinsel  of 
ing  of  feudal  castles,  or  recall- 
im  our  visits  to  foreign  capi- 
g  admission  into  our  printing- 
ratus  and  exercises  of  our  eol- 
e  attracted  by  these  things,  be- 
eans  to  effect  a  definite  object, 
erity  and  indeed  the  existence 
'he  apparatus  with  which  the 
iountries  are  carried  on  is  too 
tirely  out  of  the  question,  both 
because  it  is  not  at  all  appro- 
designs.     In  looking  over  the 
see,  as  we  ought,  that  there  is 
use  except  certain  scattered  in- 
id  there,  and  these  generally  not 
ed  with  treasures,  exhibited  with 
irms.     What  is  worth  knowing 
which  it  is  not  difficult  to  learn; 


80BTH  AMKRICAN8. 


181 


What  we  should  look  upon,  few  eyes  are  likely  to  discover, 
i  he  {south  Americans  have  contested  the  point  for  liberty 
and  independence  for  twenty  years  or  more  with  prriudice 
Jgnoran.re,  and  immorality;  and  many  of  their  statesmen! 
as  well  as  other  virtuous  citizens,  have  been  forced  to  the 
conviction  tliat  they  must  by  some  means  instruct  their 
countrymen  and  render  them  virtuous,  or  their  past  labours 
and  trials  will  be  unavailing.     Let  Europe  be  at  peace,  and 
permit  only  the  concurrence  of  such  circumstances  as  mav 
be  imagined,  and  fleets  and  armies  will  cross  the  Atlantic 
to  recover  those  immeasurable  and  splendid  regions  to  the 
dommion  of  despotism.     Men  who  have  sacrificed  fortune, 
endured  wounds,  imprisonment,  and  exile,  the  loss  of  friends 
and  families  for  the  benefit  of  their  country,  are  ready  to 
part  with  all  that  remains  rather  than  be  ultimately  defeated 
of  their  objects.     When  therefore  they  see  by  that  means  so 
simple  and  economical  as  the  propagation  of  knowledge,  the 
encouragement  of  virtue  and  industry,  their  point  may  be 
gamed,  they  look  upon  the  steps  by  which  this  may  be 
effected  with  an  interest  which  might  excite  some  of  our 
talking  but  inactive  friends  of  education  and  public  industry 
and  arouse  them  from  that  lethargy  which  so  extensively 
prevails  m  the  United  States. 

Some  of  these  South  Americans  having  visited  several 
of  our  institutions,  celebrations,  public,  and  Sunday-schools : 
io  think,    remarked  one  of  them,  "that  one-third  of  the 
capital  of  my  country  is  invested  in  the  convents  !     How 
much  more  truly  great  are  such  monuments  as  your  public 
school-houses  than  any  of  the  edifices  of  Europe  !"     While 
seated  in  the  teacher's  desk,  after  a  silence,  he  exclaimed; 
11 1  could  learn  the  art  of  instruction  here,  I  should  desire 
no  higher  honour  than  to  devote  the  remainder  of  my  days 
to  teachin,rr  the  poor."    This  gentleman  has  since  been  called 
to  the  presidency  of  Mexico  by  acclamation,  restored  peace 
m  the  midst  of  civil  war,  held  that  office  for  a  few  months, 
and  retired  to  private  life. 

"What  have  we  here?"  said  another,  as  he  entered  an 
mlant-school,  while  the  pupils  were  marching  to  drafts—"  a 
mUitary  parade  commanded  by  women?    This  is  the  way 

16*  ' 


I 


182 


NEW-YORK. 


to  lay  the  foundation  of  a  good  state.  I  have  no  liigher 
pleasure,"  he  added,  "  than  to  visit  your  schools  and  col- 
leges.'* He  is  now  displaying  at  home  his  devotion  to  learn- 
ing in  all  its  branches,  under  the  most  favourable  rircum- 
■tances,  viz.  as  president  of  the  republic  of  New  (irenada. 
One  of  his  most  enlightened  countrymen  and  personal 
friends,  in  his  first  visit  to  a  Sabbath-school,  found  the  in- 
fant class  singing  a  well-known  juvenile  hymn ;  and  as  he 
understood  the  English  language,  said,  with  much  feel- 
ing, "  Truly  the  children  of  the  United  States  are  taught  to 
repeat  sentiments  before  they  can  understand  them,  while 
other  nations  might  well  make  any  sacrifice  if  they  might 
with  truth  apply  them  to  themselves : — 

•My  God,  I  thank  thee,  thou  hast  plann'd 

A  better  lut  tor  me  ; 
AnJ  placM  me  in  this  Christian  land, 
Where  I  may  hear  of  Thee.' 

"  I  am  fully  convinced,"  said  he,  "  that  sincere,  active 
benevolence  alone  is  true  greatness.  Serving  God,  loving 
all  mankind  as  brothers,  and  teaching  them  to  exercise  the 
same  feelings  towards  each  other — these  are  the  only  ob- 
jects worth  living  for.  The  principles  of  the  Gospel  of 
Jesus  Christ  are  the  only  principles  on  which  wc  can  de- 
pend for  private  or  public  happiness.     Honour,  pride,  and 

power they  are  trilles,  mere  trifles."    The  sweet  harmony 

of  about  an  hundred  and  fifty  children  at  an  infant-school 
one  day  made  his  eyes  glisten ;  and  he  remarked,  "  How 
affecting  it  is  to  reflect,  that '  Except  ye  repent,  and  become 
as  little  children,  ye  shall  in  no  case  enter  the  kingdom  of 
heaven.'"  This  gentleman,  the  father  of  an  interesting 
little  family,  six  or  seven  hundred  miles  in  the  interior  of 
Colombia,  of  which  republic  he  was  the  last  president,  re- 
turned thither  about  a  twelvemonth  since,  prepared  to  de- 
vote himself  to  the  active  promotion  of  education  in  all  its 
branches,  among  all  classes,  the  Indians  and  negroes  in- 
cluded ;  but  has  been  elected  to  the  vice-presidency  of  New 
Grenada,  and  compelled  to  accept  of  that  station,  in  spite 
of  two  refusals. 


"J 
Ifyc 
mad 
you' 
'  terda 
Work 
couni 
a-pur 


ORK. 

10(1  State.  I  have  no  liigher 
)  visit  your  schools  and  col- 
at  home  his  devotion  to  learn- 
the  most  favourable  rircum- 
lie  republic  of  New  (irenada. 
ned  countrymen  and  personal 
Sabbath-school,  found  the  in- 
ivn  juvenile  hymn ;  and  as  he 
^uage,  said,  with  much  feel- 
iie  United  States  are  taught  to 
y  can  understand  them,  while 
ie  any  sacrifice  if  they  might 
iselves : — 

c,  thou  hast  plann'd 

i 

B  Christian  land, 
of  Thee.' 

said  he,  "that  sincere,  active 
eatncss.     Serving  God,  loving 

teaching  them  to  exercise  the 
)lher — these  are  the  only  ob- 
e  principles  of  the  Gospel  of 
rinciples  on  which  wc  can  de- 
lappiness.  Honour,  pride,  and 
J  trifles."  The  sweet  harmony 
;y  children  at  an  infant-school 
ten ;  and  he  remarked,  "  How 
'  Except  ye  repent,  and  become 
I  no  case  enter  the  kingdom  of 
,  the  father  of  an  interesting 
lundred  miles  in  the  interior  of 

he  was  the  last  president,  re- 
vemonth  since,  prepared  to  de- 
omotion  of  education  in  all  its 
3,  the  Indians  and  negroes  in- 
1  to  the  vice-presidency  of  New 
accept  of  that  station,  in  bpite 


«E«VEs',  p.TKKT  roiorns.  ,^,3 

-:i;;^^T:::^X?---''onedtosW,,,^ 

oronrSo,ahA„.orican  :  ,2   ;t'r^''  '«  "'"  P'"ffresa 
kinds  ;  und  to  call  to  min.l  h?        ""P'^ovcn.onts  of  various 

f  institutions  and  ^  ^     LnVre':'""!'/  "';''  "''"  '^^^^^ 
'crests  .),e  hope,  an.l  fea     of  hesc  fi:^  ^  ''^''''''^'''^  "'^  *" 
New  World  ;  and  it  is  daily  hpir  '"''  P°'''""«  «f  Ihc 

'lu'y  to  seek  to  strength  7ratJ  or  ,r  """"?  ''"P^'-'«"«'y  our 
«"a''hme„ts,  which,  ^Jc  .  '     '     ""  '"  ^^'"^^  °'"-  '"««"al 
narrow,  should  be  as  ide  .1.         "'  1  ''"'•'•'"'  though 
devoted  friends  of  kno J  0X0      'i\l''"  ^»'^--     «'her 
admirers  and  willing  pupils    n'hr/  *'"'  enthusiastic 
but  Pcdraza,  «an.afd/r  ^nVfi'^''^^''^'  "^^  "-".ioned; 
amples  in  which  noble  senUmrml    ^      '  "^  ^'^'^n  as  exi 
•ntelligent  observations  madet  2'""^  ^""""^  "«'  «nd 
made  to  produce  speedy  and  Ih      ,    ''''"""^'  ^^^e  been 
regions  to  which  therht^urtr"  '™'^  ^"  '^'«  -t 

to  wp  t:  r  t^TrXTr-  ™-  -  -p- 

provements  in  any  of  ,l,e  art«    h  ^"'^  useful  im. 

There  i«  a  prying^^pi^  'jj^     'Tvfn'"'"^.  ""^'  ""---• 
possesses  every  ThiL  thnT  "  n     '        f  "^'^  "»'  "st  till  it 
^0  to  the  ends'of  tlfe  ZITS^'^TF-     ''^"  -" 
faejiuate,  or  perfect  their  labours  tjhf'  '"ay  lighten, 
feel   interested,   since   comnethinn  "'^''""  •^'"^^^  'hey 

n>ade  knowledge  and  skiraSb     in^the"""'!!""""^  ^^« 

All  the  encomiums  that  n      u         ""^  market. 
American  curiosity  and  per  everan 'e  TT"^'  ''"^^^^'•'  o" 
jame  ';velyin.pressions'f  its^a     e  a'a  1""'  ^'^■•'  '""^  ^^e 
I  heard  between  a  poor  man  ZTZnul      ' '"'^'"''''^'^ 

-a  e      Now  these  are'  as  ZkRelXZ  '""  ''">•  ='- 
3  ou  ve  got  ,„  your  case  yonder  tho,  'h  r    ^T'  ""'  '''em      ^ 
erday  niyself.     You  don^  bel    ve  If  /  T'^'  '^'"^  ^es- 
worked  for  Keeves  in  London     Tpn,  5      J'"'"'  ''"'  ^'ve 
country  how  to  make  such  fine  pain- '''f  '"''  ""'  '"  'hi* 

^•p-pose  to ...  I  ..^,  :^:^;itz:^;^^ 


181 


NEW-YORK. 


supply  this  country,  tho  demand  has  got  to  bo  no  ^rcat  now. 
Well,  tlicy  let  me  ro  into  the  sliop— the>  thought  1  diiln't 
know  nothing,  and  perhaps  I  didn't  sueh  a  terrilile  deal. 
However,  I  know'd  so  much  as  tiiis— 1  got  ao  pretty  soon 
that  I  could  make  the  patent  colours  as  well  as  anybody. 
But  I  wasn't  quite  ready  to  come  oil'  yet,  mind  you.  There 
was  tlie  camel's  hair-pencils ;  nobody  knew  how  to  make 
them  in  the  United  States— and  I  thought  I  might  as  well 
larn  that  tue  while  my  hand  was  in.  Well,  I  left  Mr. 
Reeves's,  and  got  in  a  pencil-shop ;  and  the  tirst  thmg  I 
found  out  was,  that  they  are  made  of  nothing  in  the  world 
but  squirrels'  tails." 

Here  was  an  exclamation  of  surprise  and  doubt. 

"If  they  an't,"  continued  the  narrator,  perfectly  una- 
bashed, "  I  hope  I  may  never  stir  out  of  my  tracks.  I  tell 
you  they're  squirrels'  tails,  brought  from  America ;  and  if 
they  can  manufacture  them  cheap,  sartingly  we  ought  to 
undersell  'em.  But  then  there's  the  putting  the  hairs  to- 
gether all  exactly  right,  and  getting  them  through  the  little 
end  of  a  chicken's  quill,  and  there  gluing  them  fast.  That's 
the  rub — not  exactly  that  either— but  there's  the  sticking- 
place.  I  guess  I  worked  long  enough  at  that  to  find  out 
how  it  was  done,  and  then  had  to  be  told  and  look  too  be- 
fore  I  could  larn ;  and  law,  it's  easy  enough." 

"Well,  how  is  it?" 

"  Ah !"  replied  the  artisan,  with  a  shrewd,  penetrating, 
and  ironical  look — "  that's  tellin'." 


•YORK. 

nd  has  got  to  bo  no  ^rcat  now. 
c  shop — the)  thought  1  iliiln't 

I  (liihi't  such  a  terrilile  deal. 
1  as  tliis — 1  got  so  pretty  soon 
,  colours  as  well  as  anybody, 
cine  olV  yet,  mind  you.  There 
% ;  nobody  knew  how  to  make 
-and  I  thought  I  might  as  well 
nd  was  in.  Well,  I  left  Mr. 
cil-shop ;  and  the  first  thing  I 

made  of  nothing  in  the  world 

of  surprise  and  doubt. 
,  the  narrator,  perfectly  una- 
r  stir  out  of  my  tracks.  I  tell 
brought  from  America  ;  and  if 
cheap,  sartingly  we  ought  to 
ere's  the  putting  the  hairs  to- 
getting  them  through  the  little 
there  gluing  them  fast.  That's 
ther — but  there's  the  stick  ing- 
ng  enough  at  that  to  find  out 
lad  to  be  tcld  and  look  too  be< 
it's  easy  enough." 

1,  with  a  shrewd,  penetrating, 
lUin'." 


185 


CHAPTER  XXrv. 

^-Cor„„or.eW.,,_Heeo,.e,o„.on.eCHoK... 

••o^"'ry  more  thnn  two  ylr,   inT:  T'' V'"'  ''™""f"  '"  ""« 
;^ll./ro,„  a  group  of  iKs  '  /  '  ^.^'«P'"'"  -^""'es  Mor- 

I^aoWic  Ocean,  duL.a;^";;'!,^'^      "  '"'"•''^'"^"  '"  ^''« 
Ml'H.avehHd  before    £;f2%»^«'ot''o«o  seas.    The 

;°"^  .i"?  upon  fhose  iS%;j  "'^■^"••"■^«'  """  ''"^«y 
'«  '^Inin.s  ,0  bo  the  di  coverer  't  "  ''^'"'^  °^  ^^''"•■'' 
''.""•e  hy  Captain  MonTlI'.r  ^  T"  ^^'^^  ''^«"ff'" 
«'n-e  of  the  ronswmpt  o„  'in  ul  A^"°v  t''  '"''"''  "«>"'h« 
was  of  a  diflernn  L^'l  to^7  ''^  ^''^^-^-  He 
passionate  and  ,Ii8obli.L^nev,T^  "•«  survivor,  and  very 

°"r  principal  cities,  and  1  .J^    '"'  r'"^'"^''  '"  «omo  of 
pose,!  to  be  natives  of/he  Mas.''"  °'''"/"«n««"«Iy  s"p- 

owards  these  poor  savajs  Vn  ""''";  "'^  '"'"  '"""■^"'tX 
'"H'gonce,  n>.odesty,  and  philan  h  '''"^^''"'''' ^^''''  '''«  Un- 
covered in  him  after  a  sli.h'^^''°P"'    «''"t"nents  I  dis. 

;;"i'y/o  spend  sortittithr'mr- 1  ""'  •^"  "^^- 
^vho  lives  in  his  family.  Hn  L  „f  '"•^"  ^'"'*'''  "lentioned, 
perfectly  African,  with  larsre  Lif  ?'"^^  *"'""'''''  «'«"««' 
"o^e  (a  little  flattened),  bufi '  iJn'^r  ^'''^'.'^"'•'^^'  ^air.  small 
«'oop  at  the  shoulders  HlV.  T  T'^'  ^^^ptin^  a  slight 
and  his  countenan  Thas^n  e.t"'"'''^'''"''«'^"k'""'«»o, 
""  acquaintance  wkh   ,m  dno?7' '""  '^'^  ^'""^^t-V,  mingled 

-^-^-„ess.whi^.--jssrij:i:^^ 


I 


180 


Nbw-vork; 


hut  Utile  instruction ;  hut  from  this  circumstiHico  I  was  the* 
bplier  al)li!  to  lorm  an  opinion  of  the  mind  of  a  lieaiiicn  and 
■A  barbarian.  I  have  hisurc  at  present  to  say  l)ut  very  liilh' 
in  regard  to  a  man  of  whom,  durinjr  repeated  interviews,  I 
obtained  materials  enougii  to  entertain  a  lover  of  noveltitH 
for  some  liours. 

Daco  (pronounced  Dahco)  was  son  of  a  chief  of  his  na- 
tive ishind,  whicli  is  one  of  a  small,  but  populous  group, 
within  six  degrees  of  the  equator,  and  near  longitude  115 
west.     His  native   island,  Uniapa  (or  Ooneeahpah),  has 
three  prominent  moimtains,  with  some  rough  ground  near 
the  sea,  where  was  Daeo's  rcsidcnec,  among  a  number  ot 
people  whom  he  commanded.     His  father's  pcopli!  dwelt 
on  the  side  of  one  of  the  mountains,  his  mother's  in  another 
place,  A-e.  &c.,  there  being  a  number  of  petty  princes  on 
each  of  the  inhabited  islands.     War,  he  represents,  is  never 
carried  on  between  different  islands,  but  only  between  tribes 
of  the  same  island ;  and  then  wounds  are  much  more  fre- 
quent than  deaths.    The  land  is  ciuelly  covered  with  forests; 
and  he  gave  me  names  for  fifty  or  sixty  of  our  trees,  shrubs, 
(lowers,  &c.,  some  of  which  we  have  no  purely  English 
names  for.     The  men  go  without  any  clothes  at  all :  the 
women  wear  a  single  garment :  the  climate  being  extremely 
hot.     They  budd  houses  after  a  model  which  I  have ;  bury 
their  dead  in  them ;  purchase  wives  with  several  articles 
which  pass  as  money;  practise  polygamy;  and  some  super- 
stitious ceremonies  to  cure  diseases,  obtain  favourable  winds, 
rain,  &.c.,  but  have  no  idolatry.     They  acknowledge  one 
Supreme  Being,  tlie  creator,  rewarder  of  the  good  and  pun- 
isher  of  the  bad,  invisible,  &c.     They  have  traces  of  a 
revelation,  considering  a  particular  Jewish  rite  which  they 
practice  as  commanded  by  God  to  make  men  better ;  and 
their  art  of  curing  diseases  and  producing  rain  is  also  derived 
from  him.     Pango  is  the  only  inferior  deity  he  informed  me 
of.     He  presides  over  an  inferior  world,  where  every  thing 
is  delightful,  and  whither  the  good  go  after  death.     They 
are,  however,  invisible  to  each  other,  and  can  communicate 
only  by  the  sounds  of  their  voices.     There  is  plenty  of 
plants,  flowers,  animals,  and  objects  agreeable  to  the  sight : 


}Rk; 

ihis  fircumstiHico  I  was  llio 
nC  the  mind  of  a  lieailicii  and 
preseiil  to  say  l)ut  very  liulo 
diirinjf  repeated  interviews,  I 
entertain  a  lover  ol'  noveltien 

vas  son  of  u  chief  of  his  na- 
1  small,  but  populous  group, 
lalor,  and  near  longitude  115 
liapa  (or  Ooueeahpali),  ha« 
ilh  some  rough  ground  near 
sidcnec,  among  a  number  of 
.  His  father's  peopli;  dwelt 
itains,  his  mother's  in  another 
I  number  of  petty  prineea  on 

War,  he  represents,  is  never 
lands,  but  only  between  tribes 
I  wounds  are  much  more  fre- 
is  oiiielly  covered  with  forests; 
y  or  sixty  of  our  trees,  slirubs, 

we  have  no  purely  English 
ihout  any  clotlies  at  all :  tlic 
:  the  climate  being  extremely 
r  a  model  which  I  have ;  bury 
3  wives  with  several  articles 
ie  polygamy ;  and  some  super- 
cases,  obtain  favourable  winds, 
itry.  They  acknowledge  one 
rewarder  of  the  good  and  pun- 
&c.  They  have  traces  of  a 
ticular  Jewish  rite  which  they 
iod  to  make  men  better ;  and 
d  producing  rain  is  also  derived 
r  inferior  deity  he  informed  nie 
erior  world,  where  every  thing 

good  go  after  death.  They 
;h  other,  and  can  communicate 
r  voices.  There  is  plenty  of 
objects  agreeable  to  the  sight : 


if 


li 
F 
V 

P; 


<>, 


%'%0. 


IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-3) 


1.0    !ri-  IIM 


I.I 


1^  1^    ill  2.2 

Ir  I4£   mil  2.0 


1.8 


1.25      1.4      1.6 

« 6" 

► 

% 


? 


Photographic 

Sciences 

Corporation 


23  WEST  MAIN  STREET 

WEBSTER,  N.Y.  145G0 

(716)  872-4503 


% 


'•M. 


\^r9 


\     '■ 


CIHM/ICMH 

Microfiche 

Series. 


CIHIVI/ICMH 
Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for 


Historical  Microreproductions  /  Institut  Canadian  de  microreproductions  historiques 


BACO,  THK  14VA0E  taLANDClI.  '     Jgj 

but  lh.y  are  M  „hi.e.     The  en.™„ce  lo  .hi,  w„,U  i. 
ly  be  At„1,'"°  """•  *•  — "«  •"  W.  deecSoS; 

supposed  to  be  spirits.     That  invisible  worid  ttheTa.rdof 
mus,c  :  Pango  having  given  the  people  of  the  i   ands  fie  or 

na^ewUhthatofthrSl^iSV     ru~^^^^^^^^^^ 
s^mdantyof  some  of  his  words  with  those  ofle'  GeJi  and 

"ng  rn^oTToT'  "  "''",  "  '=^"^'"  Peeuliarit^rfn      e 
tongue  not  to  be  expected  ,n  one  belonging  to  such  a 

othin^t^tnTvrgeTar.ljt^  'T  '"'  '-'-' 
and  other  valuable  fruks      Th  "j?  I   7  'P^''''  '^«'^««""'s. 

habitants  (at  the  command  of  Pan,T«  «,v,„     ■■"ly  oj  us  in- 

poeuy  or  rhythm,  fhey  have  various  airs,  generallv  of  i 
p^  .nt,ve  cast  but  with  greater  compass  and  vfrie^TK^^ 
than  are  found  m  most  other  sarage  nations.    The  hnguage 


188 


NEW-YORK. 


is  smooth  and  melodious,  having  no  sound  which  we  cannot 
easily  make,  unless  it  be  an  occasional  guttural  g.     Ihey 
interchange  some  of  the  consonant  sounds,  but  generally  not 
the  same  as  the  Sandwich  and  oiliei  islanders,  whose  lan- 
guages I  have  examined.     The  tongue  has  a  considerable 
resemblance  to  those  of  some  of  the  Polynesian  Islands  m 
structure,  and  a  distant  one  in  words  ;  but  it  is  more  agree- 
able, harmonious,  and  manly.     A  "nursery  sonu,     begin- 
ning Eoa,  eao,  lahi  labi  titm  na  potu,  &c.,  has  a  very  sweet 
air,  and  contains  several  kind  epithets  addressed  to  the 
child,  promising  that  its  head  shall  be  ornamented  with  a 
feather  of  the  labt  or  parrot  if  it  will  cease  crymg.     A 
swimming  song  and  a  canoe  song,  which  also  I  wrote  down, 
are  mellifluous  and  appropriate  to  their  sut)jects. 

Daco  has  a  disposition  of  the  most  Irank,  simple,  and 
amiable  description.     He  admires  much  what  he  sees,  and 
says  that  there  are  many  very  good  men  among  us ;  am 
thouoh  he  is  impatient  to  revisit  his  own  land,  says  he  will 
»  come  back  to  'Merriki/  hie"  (America  island),  and  brmg 
one  of  his  brothers  with  him.     He  was  pleased  with  a 
proposition  to  teach  his  people  what  would  be  useful  to 
tliem ;  and  if  instructed,  or  accompanied  by  some  judicious 
philanthropist  on  his  return,  would  no  doubt  render  them 
material  service.     I  visited  a  school  with  him,  and  he  took 
a  deep  interest  in  some  simple  religious  instruction  which 
the  children  received  in  his  presence,  as  he  has  a  little 
knov'dedge  of  our  language.     He  promised  on  his  arrival  at 
his  island  to  collect  the  children  every  Sabbath,  and  teacii 

them  in  like  manner.  ,  ■   ,    r  r  •     i 

It  strikes  a  person  strangely  to  feel  such  a  kind  ol  Inena- 
ship  towards  an  ignorant  savage  as  I  ai-quired  for  Daco ; 
but  one's  attachment  for  such  an  individual  may  be  as 
sincere,  and  productive  of  more  real  gralitication,  than  we 
sometimes  find  among  the  children  of  arf,  the  sons  of  luxury 
and  vice  around  us ;  and  I  have  the  pleasure  of  thinking 
that  my  feelings  were  reciprocated,  which  is  more  gratifying 
than  a  whole  volume  of  false  professions  of  friendship. 
Some  parts  of  the  city  awakened  in  me  recollections  ot 


i^ 


r-YORK. 

iving  no  sound  which  we  cannot 
m  occasional  guttural  g.  They 
isonant  sounds,  but  generally  not 

and  oiliei  islanders,  whose  lan- 
The  tongue  has  a  considerable 
me  of  the  Polynesian  Islands  in 

in  words  ;  but  it  is  more  agree- 
iily.  A  "  nursery  sonij,"  begin- 
<,  na  potu,  &c.,  has  a  very  sweet 
kind  epithets  addressed  to  the 
lead  shall  be  ornamented  with  a 
■rot  if  it  will  cease  crying.  A 
le  song,  which  also  I  wrote  down, 
riaie  to  their  8ut)jects. 

of  the  most  frank,  simple,  and 
admires  nmch  what  he  sees,  and 

very  good  men  among  us ;  and 
evisit  his  own  land,  says  he  will 
hie"  (America  island),  and  bring 

him.  He  was  pleased  with  a 
people  what  would  be  useful  to 
ir  accompanied  by  some  judicious 
iru,  would  no  doubt  render  them 
d  a  school  with  him,  and  he  took 
simple  religious  instruction  which 

his  presence,  as  he  has  a  little 
;e.  He  promised  on  his  arrival  at 
:hildren  every  Sabbath,  and  teach 

ngely  to  feel  such  a  kind  of  friend- 
t  savage  as  I  acquired  for  Daco ; 
r  such  an  iudividual  may  be  as 
>f  more  real  gratification,  than  we 
i  children  of  art,  the  sons  of  luxury 
I  I  have  the  pleasure  of  thinking 
iprocated,  which  is  more  gratifying 
'alse  professions  of  friendship. 
;y  awakened  in  me  recollections  of 


RECOLLECTIONS  OF  THE  CHOLERA. 


180 


the  season  of  1832,  and  the  cholera  in  New- York.  I  spent 
several  weeks  there  at  that  time,  and  may  be  excused  for 
expressing  a  few  of  the  feelings  then  excited. 

l-'or  niyseif,  I  had  found  it  difficult  to  realize,  that  the 
busy  and  apparently  g„y  crouds  in  the  streets  might  be 
soberr  .,nd  saddened  in  an  hour  by  the  appearance  of  the 
(lisea.  ,  and  scattered  towards  all  points  of  the  compass  by 
Its  rava.,os.  Indeed,  I  liad  found  it  hard  to  persuade  myself 
that  I  v.as  soon  to  know  it  by  dreadful  experience  or  obser- 
vation.  And  when  it  was  confidently  reported  to  have  ap- 
peared,  flattered  myself  that  it  would  have  been  modified 
by  the  climate ;  and  anxiously  inquired  whether  it  had  that 
dreadful  blue  complexion,  those  irresistible  spasms  and  rack- 
ing pains,  accompanied  with  an  undisturbed  mind.  And  when 
I  found  that  the  same  monster  was  among  us.  which  I  had 
so  long  regarded  as  fabulous  in  India,  and  that  he  had  <-ome 
as  It  were  with  a  stride  across  the  Atlantic,  I  began  to  look 
withm:  for  he  had  seemed  to  cry,  "To  the  ready  and  the 
unprepared  I  come." 

There  was  a  peculiar  seriousness  immediately  percepti- 
ble on  the  face  of  society.     The  gay  and  lively  had  gener- 
ally disappcjared,  and  no  longer  interrupted  such  thoughts  as 
abundant  leisure  inclined  others  to  entertain.     And  what 
thoughts  were  these?     We  were  soon  deserted  by  most 
of  our  friends,  or  had  deserted   them  for  the  same  rea- 
son :    we  hud  momentary  expectations  for  weeks  of  see- 
ing  our  own  children,  parents,  brothers,  and  sisters  seized 
with  the  terrible  disease  before  our  eyes  ;  and  the  morninir 
evening,  noon,  and  night  air  being  almost  equally  dangeroiil 
we  could  do  little  out  of  doors  for  days  in  succession.     I 
cannot  easily  imagine  a  case  in  which  the  body  could  be 
condemned  to  more  ])erf(.ct  idleness,  while  there  was  every 
thing  to  excite  and  occupy  the  mind.    Almost  every  species 
of  food,  coiinnoiily  consideied  harmless  or  nutritious,  was 
prohibited ;  and  the  very  medicines  which  we  kep.'  by  our 
bedsides,  in  our  offices,  Mores,  and   pockets,  wc  were  pe- 
vemptoriiy  lorbiddeii  to  take  or  adn.inister  a  moment  before 
or  a  im.meiu  alier  the  appropriate  time.     In  cin-uni*-tances 
like  these  it  would  be  impo.xMbie  for  any  mmd,  obiservaiU 

17 


ii 


J(;. 


;^ 


190 


NEW-YOHK. 


of  its  own  reflections  and  the  movements  of  others,  not  to 
„ce  vc1^t«truction.     Not  only  my  own  feelings,  but  the  ex- 
cess ons  dropped  from  the  lips  of  others,  were  of  a  jnuch 
Ue  solemn  tone,  and  deeper  import  than  usual.     I  found 
an  involuntary  "  farewell"  on  my  tongue  whenever  I  parted 
from  a  friend,  even  for  a  few  hours,  and  a  kmd  of  surprise 
at  meei  gany  one  whom  1  had  not  seen  for  a  day  or  two. 
Li  e  wa    so  precarious  that  it  was  not  calculated  on  as  en- 
Sir  ngfand  1  now  felt  something  of  that  astonishment  at 
dell  delay  which  I  had  often  experienced  on  his  arrival. 
The  tone  of  conversation,  with  whomsoever  I  spoke,  was 
I^Jdently  very  different  from  that  of  ordinary  times:   for 
thire  were  strong  and  irrepressible  feelings  in  every  breast, 
wS  ch  laid  their  hands  upon  the  tongue,  the  l"«bs  and  the 
7eaturcs.     The  soul  seemed  to  press  to  the  eyes  with  such 
anxiety  to  watch  the  exterior  world,  that  you  could  see    t 
Ser  than  ever  before.     The  risible  muscles  seemed  pal- 
£    aid  Siose  which  are  usually  ready  to  furl  the  curtains 
of  the  countenance  in  smiles,  no  longer  obeyed,  or  rather 
were  no  longer  ordered  to  act.  ,        .  :„ 

A  frLd,  in  speaking  of  the  idle  questions  of  certain 
thoughS   persons  from  a  distant   place,  on  this  awful 
sSS  said,  »  When  they  exclaimed  'how  can  you  sub- 
2,0  such  privations  of  food  1'  I  felt  like  weeping  at  the 
memory  of  the  solemn  lessons  which  had  placed  us  above 
such  fdvolous  considerations  as  those  of  taste.     Ah,  you 
Cw  not  what  you  can  do  till  the  cholera  comes  among 
V^u      'Did  you  not  prohibit  the  subject  from  conversation! 
[nquired  they     '  How  would  that  have  been  possible  V  replied 
r "besides'how  heathenish,  how  impious  it  would  ha>^ 
b;en,  so  to  close  our  eyes  against  the  sight  of  the  Almighty  s 
iudnments-so  to  stifle  the  voice  of  Providence  1 
^    »rhavemade  one  discovery,"  remarked  another   riend, 
»  which  I  intend  to  practise  the  rest  of  my  life.    I  find  I  can 
noTonly  live  on  vJry  simple  food,  entirely  undisguised  by 
spces  and  gravies,  but  that  two-thirds  or  one-half  the  quan- 
Sv  I  used  to  consid..r  necessary  for  my  sustenance  is  more 
favourable  to  my  health  and  enjoyment      How  important  a 
practical  lesson  is  this  which  the  cholera  has  taught  me !  Had 


ORK. 

le  movements  of  others,  not  to 
yr  my  own  feelings,  but  the  ex- 
ips  of  others,  were  of  a  much 
r  import  than  usual.     I  found 
my  tongue  whenever  I  parted 
hours,  and  a  kind  of  surprise 
lad  not  seen  for  a  day  or  two. 
t  was  not  calculated  on  as  en- 
ething  of  that  astonishment  at 
rten  experienced  on  his  arrival, 
vith  whomsoever  I  spoke,  was 
n  that  of  ordinary  times:   for 
essible  feelings  in  every  breast, 
the  tongue,  the  limbs,  and  the 
to  press  to  the  eyes  with  such 
)r  world,  that  you  could  see  it 
rhe  risible  muscles  seemed  pal- 
isually  ready  to  furl  the  curtains 
les,  no  longer  obeyed,  or  rather 

ct. 

the  idle  questions  of  certam 
a  distant   place,  on  this  awful 
'  exclaimed  'how  can  you  sub- 
food  V  I  felt  like  weeping  at  the 
sons  which  had  placed  us  above 
,ns  as  those  of  taste.     Ah,  you 
lo  till  the  cholera  comes  among 
lit  the  subject  from  conversation  V 
1  that  have  been  possible  V  replied 
ish,  how  impious  it  would  have 
igainst  the  sight  of  the  Almighty's 
3  voice  of  Providence  ?'" 
overy,"  remarked  another  friend, 
e  the  rest  of  my  life.    I  find  I  can 
iplc  food,  entirely  undisguised  by 
at  two-thirds  or  one-half  the  quan- 
:essary  for  my  sustenance  is  more 
nd  enjoyment.     How  important  a 
ch  the  cholera  has  taught  me !  Had 


RECOLLECTIONS  OF  THE  CIIOLKRA. 


191 


I  learned  and  practised  upon  it  from  my  youth,  I  might  have 
been  a  more  happy,  wealthy,  and  useful  man.  I  wish  I 
could  proclaim,  on  the  house-tops,  the  doctrine  I  now  em- 
brace ;  it  would  save  thousands  from  disease,  poverty,  suf- 
fering, and  even  death." 

It  was  only  because  the  warnings  of  physicians  against 
our  eating  prohibited  articles  was  repeatedly  and  terribly 
backed  by  the  sudden  voice  of  death,  that  we  were  won 
over  to  entire  obedience  to  their  commands,  at  first  often 
treated  as  childish.     Some  slight  indulgence  of  appetite  was 
often  found,  like  the  feeble  wire  pointed  at  a  thunder  cloud, 
the  cause  of  an  instantaneous  and  deadly  bolt  from  heaven. 
We  then  found  that  we  dearly  loved  life  :  and  »'  What  shall 
we  eat,  and  what  shall  we  drink?"  was  changed  for  "What 
shall  a  man  give  in  exchange  for  his  soul  ?"     The  effect  of 
abstinence  was  soon  perceptible  in  the  mind  as  well  as  the 
body.    The  pulse  was  cooler,  the  feelings  more  manageable 
though  more  powerfully  acted  upon,  the  reason  more  undistur- 
bed,  and  the  judgment  more  deliberate,  decided,  and  uniform. 
Morning,  noon,  and  midnight  this  world  and  the  next  stood 
before  the  eyes  in  the  same  proximity  and   comparative 
importance.    Joy  and  grief  sat,  as  it  were,  for  weeks  within 
the  reach  of  our  hands,  on  the  right  and  the  left:  equally 
prepared  to  join  our  company  at  a  moment's  warning,  when- 
ever death  or  life  should  be  decided  on  for  ourselves  or  our 
friends. 

The  weather  was  delijrhtful  during  the  most  fearful  ravages 
of  the  disease.  I  walked  out  early  on  the  Hattery,  alone- 
there  was  no  walking  or  doing  any  thing  else  for  pleasure. 
1  admired  the  thick  and  verdant  foliage  ;  and  turned  for 
horne  with  the  reflection  that  so  splendid  a  morning  and 
such  verdure  I  had  seldom  or  never  witnessed.  Tlie  long 
silent,  and  empty  streets,  with  the  grass  starting  throuHi  the 
pavements,  and  the  curb-stones  white  with  a  washhi<r  of 
hmc,  presented  a  sad  picture  of  solitude ;  and  a  litter,  hirrry- 
ing  to  the  nearest  hospital,  showed  that  amid  these  signs  of 
desertion,  the  awful  cholera  was  at  work.  That  day's 
report  was  the  heaviest  of  the  season. 


i 


IS 


192 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


Fashionable  Educiiion— Huilnon  River— The  Power  of  Fancy— Cat- 
■kilt  Mountains— Thunder-storms— Rainbows— Morning  Scene. 

I  AH  a  traveller,  periodically,  like  all  my  countrymen ; 
and  deserve  the  name,  in  common  with  almost  all  my  fellow- 
citizens,  of  belonging  to  the  greatest  travelling  nation  in  the 
world.  Of  course,  on  stepping  into  one  of  our  steamboats,  I 
ought  reasonably  to  feel  a  personal  interest  in  the  question, 
BO  important,  though  so  seldom  answered  :  "  What  do  we 
travel  for  1"  I  am  ready  to  confess  that  I  have  changed  my 
own  views  of  this  subject  several  limes  in  the  course  of  my 
Lfe.  I  began  my  travels  with  an  idea  that  it  was  an  im- 
portant object  to  become  familiar  with  the  great  cities  and 
edifices  of  Europe;  the  scenes  of  great  events,  and  the 
peculiarities  as  well  as  ciiaracters  of  distinguished  men. 
Such,  I  dare  say,  is  the  impression  with  which  one  of  my 
fellow-travellers,  on  my  right,  lately  set  out  on  a  tour  to 
Europe;  but  I  find  that  while  he  familiarly  describes 
rarious  localities  and  personages  abroad,  he  despises 
every  object  around  him.  Hence  I  presume  he  regards 
all  on  this  side  of  the  Atlantic  as  I  once  did,  as  beneath  his 
attention.  To  attempt  his  correction  or  euro  I  shall  not: 
for  1  have  once  had  that  foreign  disease,  and  know  how 
alone  it  is  ever  removed.  liCt  him  attempt  to  use  his 
knowledge ;  let  liini  try  to  apply  his  facts  to  things ;  and 
he  will  find  by  degrees  that  lliey  will  not  meet.  The  mis- 
direction wliich  he  has  received  i'rom  his  tutors  and  from  his 
books,  if  lliey  are  to  be  corrected  at  all,  can  be  corrected 
only  by  experience. 

Happily,  better  opinions  have  come  into  use  within  a  few 
years  on  subjects  of  this  nature.  Our  scenery,  history,  and 
biography  attract  much  more  attention  than  they  once  did. 


( 

\ 
g 

I 

1 

ii 
e 
ii 

M 

ii 

tl 

g 
ir 

til 
N 
in 

01 


I  XXV. 

iver — The  Power  of  Fancy — Cat- 
8 — Rainbows— Morning  Scene. 

ly,  like  all  my  countrymen; 
ion  with  almost  all  my  fellow- 
eatest  travelling  nation  in  the 
y  into  one  of  our  steamboats,  I 
sonal  interest  in  the  question, 
dm  answered  :  "  What  do  we 
ifess  that  I  have  changed  my 
ral  limes  in  the  course  of  my 
1  an  idea  that  it  was  an  im- 
liliar  with  the  great  cities  and 
les  of  great  events,  and  the 
acters  of  distinguished  men. 
'ssion  with  which  one  of  my 
lately  set  out  on  a  tour  to 
hile  he  familiarly  describes 
onagrs  abroad,  he  despises 
flence  I  presume  he  regards 
;  as  I  once  did,  as  beneath  his 
orrection  or  euro  I  shall  not: 
reign  disease,  and  know  how 
IjcI  him  attempt  to  use  his 
pply  his  fads  to  things ;  and 
ley  will  not  meet.  The  mis- 
d  from  his  tutors  and  from  his 
eclcd  at  all,  can  be  corrected 

ve  come  into  use  within  a  few 

re.     Our  scenery,  history,  and 

attention  than  they  once  did. 


POWER  or  THE  IMAGINATION.  J  93 

A  fashionable  mother  near  me  has  supplied  herself  with  a 
map  o.  the  North  Itiver,  to  trace  out'  Luo  of  tl  '  i  ,cn 
country-scats  upon  the  l.^nks ;  and  v„„dcr  is  a  youth  in 
humid..  h(r.  who  is  deeply  absorbed  in'  rca.l.n.r  „f  tiK.  evcnJJ 
Which  oc.-urrcd  here  durinsr  ((„.  lirvnlutHm.     indeed,  I  hnve 

and  judgmen    displayed,  even  on  literary  matters,  bv  the 
humble,  than  by  the  lofty  in  society.    Uut  there  are  certainly 
sotrie  pomts  in  which  we  might  pursue  a  .liderent  course 
w  th  reason  and  advantage.     Here  is  a  wealthy  merchant 
who,  though  he  owes  his  fortune  to  the  habits  of  indtastly 
and    ec.nomy  he  learned    in  a    little  co.mtry  town,    anj 
the  tntelhgence  whi.-h  he  caught  by  contagion  in   a    so- 
etety  where  it  prevailed,  has  trained  up  his  sons  to  habits  of 
extravagance  and  .dicess,  which  have  already  begun  to  un- 
dermn.e  u.    A  dtsrelish  for  every  rational  employment,  ami 
the  restraints  they  have  found  in  decent  soeiity,  l.ave  now 
no't'cH  I  il"7'r'L""'"  [™'"  "''^  ''"""y-f'"'"!}' err/.  I  can. 
wl        r  '  *"'  '■'""'"'  "J'  •'"'■  ^"'«"^«  '»  «  l>alf  moon, 

I  vill      %?"  rT"  ""  '^'  ''""'^"  "^  "'«  •'■■^y- 1"'  "  ^vhat 
11  w  il.      The  daughters-with  heads  garnished  without,  and 
empty  as  the  gourd-shells  their  father  used  to  drink  out  of— 
what  wdl  be  left  of  you  after  the  thunder-storm  of  death 
shall  have  c  eared  away,  which  must  in  his  turn  strike  the 
mam  pdlar  of  your  house !     Heartless,  headless,  and  helo- 
less  by  education  !     Fashion  has  not  only  trained  your  feet 
m  Chinese  shoes,  and  blown  through  your  brains  like  a  bird's 
egg,  but  has  taught  you  crooked  paths,  and  poured  poison 
into  your  hearts.     O  for  a  eup-full  of  that  good  counsel 
which  your  grandmother  used  to  pour  out  like  water ;  O  the 
inHuence  of  her  example  upon  you  for  an  hour!     Would 
there  not  be  some  little  hope  of  your  breaking  through  the 
great  system  of  imposture  which  all  things  seem  eombin- 
mg  to  play  before  your  eyes  ? 

A  youth  from  Scotland,  on  board,  is  hastening  northward 
Je  sooner  to  turn  westward,  and  to  feast  his  taste  ai 
iNiagara.  Fancies  concerning  the  giant  of  cataracts  he  has 
mdulged  in  among  his  native  hills ;  and  the  secret  of  his 
ounosity,  as  I  believe  is  often  the  case,  appears  ta  be  to 

n* 


'tII  '" 


f 


i 


104 


HUDSON  Birr.it. 


compare  tli«  reality  with  the  crrniion  of  \m  iniaainalion.     I 
am  preimrtHl  lo  find  liim  at  first  dixappoii.lc.l,  aiul  alU'rwarU 
more  llian  Rraiified  :  for  I  doubt  not  lu;  Iv.is  heaved  ON«a  on 
Pelion  to  make  the  eataraei  nish  from  helween  two  nioun- 
tains,  as  that  is  the  way  cascades  do  in  Scoiiand ;  and  il 
would  he  natural  for  a  stranger  to  look  for  sinkuig  leaiures 
in  the  scencrv  of  the  tremendous  ver^c.     'rinis  he  will  he 
disappointed,'  if  not  disullVcted,   hy  the   fir.t  view.      1  he 
imaiiimiion   is  a   most  wonderful   arehiticl.     1  remember 
that  the  cathedrals  of  France,  when  1  visited  them  m  my 
outh,  appeared  much  too  small :  and  when  1  stepped  out 
of  St.  Peter's,  and  looked  at  the  blue   sky.  1  ihoufrht— 
»  Paltry  little  insect !     I'oor  man,  is  this  then  all  you  can 
do^"     A  heathen  writer  says,  tiiat  the  nature  of  the  gm\a 
was  lamentably  degraded   by  the  sculptors  of  Greece,  be- 
cause  the  representations  they  Rave  of  them  m  marble  w<ie 
much  less  ethereal  and  pure  than  the  conceptions  ol  the  com- 
mon people,  and  declares  that  the  mind  of  an  uneducated  man, 
ifleft  to  form  its  own  views,  would  have  created  far  supe- 
rior characters.     This  is  a  fine,  and  I  doubt  not  to  a  degree  a 
iusl  compliment  to  the  powers  of  the  ima^riuation.    We  might 
find  evidence  of  its  skill  wiihin  us  daily,  if  we  took  the  same 
pleasure  in  studying  its  capacities  and  condition   as  we  do 
those  of  our  pockets. 

Scotland  and  the  Scotch  have  much  to  interest  Americans. 
To  say  nothing  of  our  obligations  to  iheni  for  poetry  and 
prose,  "we  owe  them  for  the  testimony  they  have  borne  to 
the  worth  of  knowledge  and  virtue.  Wherever  we  find  a 
Scotchman,  we  find  a  man  trained  to  principles  of  probity, 
industry,  and  economy,  which  would  enrich  any  land  on 
earth,  and  wiih  a  respect  for  knowledge  which  would  exalt 
it.  I  speak  here  in  general  terms,  without  regard  to  indi- 
vidual exceptions.  ,  ,•  ,  .r  .  .v. 

The  banks  of  the  Hudson  are  much  more  delightful  than 
is  commonly  supposed,  even  by  those  who  feel  familiar  with 
the  scenery  of  that  beautiful  stream.  1  had  been  a  frequent 
passenger  in  the  steamboats  between  the  city  and  Albany, 
from  the  early  days  of  steamboat  travelling,  before  I  was 
induced  to   explore  the  banks,  as   I  have  since  done  al 


ITER. 

Eation  of  his  iniiiciniition.     I 
,  (liaiippoiiitfd,  iiiul  alUTward 
-t  not  hi;  lias  heaved  Ossa  on 
ii.sh  I'lorn  helwcL'ii  two  inoun- 
iilcs  do  ill  Scoiland ;  and  il 
r  to  hioiv  lor  Hlrilving  I't-aiurcs 
oils  viTKc.     'riiiis  111!  will  lit; 
:d,   hy  ihi'  lir^i  view.     'I'lie 
■rlul   anhitirl.     1  ri'mciiiber 
■,  wlien  1  visited  them  in  my 
lall :  and  wln'ii  I  stepped  out 
,  the  hlue   sky.  I  thoufrlit— 
man,  is  this  tiicn  all  you  ran 
that  the  nature  of  the  gods 
the  sculptors  of  CJreeee,  he- 
■  pave  of  ihem  in  niarhle  were 
lan  the  eonceptions  of  the  eom- 
he  mind  of  an  unediieated  man, 
ivould   have   created  far  supe- 
■,  ami  I  douhl  not  to  a  degree  a 
of  the  imagination.    We  might 
II  us  daily,  if  we  took  the  same 
•uics  and  condition   as  we  do 

vc  much  to  interest  Amerieans. 
aiions  to  iheni  for  poetry  and 

testimony  they  have  borne  to 
1  virtue.  Wherever  we  fmd  a 
ained  to  prineiplea  of  probity, 
ch  would  enrich  any  land  on 

knowledge  which  would  exalt 
I  terms,  without  regard  to  indi- 

are  much  more  delightful  than 
by  those  who  feel  familiar  with 
stream.  1  had  been  a  frequent 
I  between  the  city  and  Albany, 
inboat  travelling,  before  I  was 
iks,  as  1  have  since  done  al 


M 


r 
f 

£ 

b 
c 
e 
a 
I 
o 

V 

i\ 
n 


o 
a; 
ti 


TUB  MOUNTAIN  UOVnK. 


lOfi 


many  intprmpdialo  poiiitH.  While  on  my  annual  lour,  I 
thrrel'orf  feel  desirous  of  informing  olliers  who  may  this 
sciwon  purposf  to  pass  ah.ni{  this  route,  that  hy  aHovvinff 
themselves  a  littlo  more  time,  they  may  greatly  enhance  the 
enjoyment  and  advantajjes  of  Iravcjlinj,'. 

Mueh  of  the  eonrse  of  the  Hudson  eertainly  ofl'ers  beau- 
tiful or  striking  seenes  to  the  eye  of  every  passenger.  Hut 
it  is  to  he  remarked,  that  the  hreadlh  of  the  stream  ne- 
cessarily tames  many  features,  and  shades  or  excludes  many 
Rlimpses  of  grandeur  ami  heauty  which  are  fully  disclosed 
only  on  a  nearer  view.  The  picimes<iuc  and  varied  features 
of  the  ea.-itern  shore  of  Ilaverstraw  Hay,  stcn  from  the  larire 
steatnhoats,  which  slide  along  under  the  western  i)ank», 
allord  H  sinking  ease  of  this  kind.  There  the  traveller  may 
find  a  (lelightfid  retreat  for  a  few  ilays  or  even  weeks,  if  he 
have  so  much  lime  at  his  disposal,  and  enjoy  extensive  and 
varying  views  upon  the  broad  ex|)ansc  of  water,  from  eleva- 
tions of  two  or  three  hundred  feel. 

I  always  count  more  on  a  person  who  has  visited  such  a 
place  as  (Jatskill  Mountains  by  design,  than  on  a  common 
every-day  traveller.  Unless  his  ascent  to  that  noble  emi- 
nence has  been  the  eirect  of  an  accidental  attachment  to  a 
larty  bound  thither,  or  to  th^  mere  di(;tation  of  some  ac 
quaintance,  who  has  been  obliging  enough  to  save  the  lazy 
fellow  the  trouble  of  determining  beforehand  where  he  will 
go,  we  have  reason  to  presume  that  he  has  been  attracted 
by  the  love  of  what  is  truly  fine.  It  is  humiliating  to  the 
coneeiled  and  the  proud,  to  the  worldly  wise  and  to  the 
eminent — in  money,  to  contemplate  scenes  whicdj  pronounce 
a  kind  of  anathema  upon  the  common  objecis  of  devotion. 
If  I  were  rich  and  purse-proud,  or  the  occupant  of  any  office 
or  station  obtained  by  chicanery  or  flattery,  certain  I  am  I 
would  as  willingly  have  my  character  sifted  by  a  jury  of 
twelve  freeholders,  as  stand  and  think  of  my  motives  and 
myself  in  the  presence  of  such  a  scene. 

The  rigorous  climate  of  the  Mountain  House  has  been 
often  blamed  for  forbidding  the  approach  of  the  gay  and 
aflluent,  who  form  such  a  figure  in  the  annual  crowds  of 
travellers.     But  if  the   scene  were  as  flattering  to  per- 


R 


I 

I 


196 


CATTSKILL  MOUNTAIN!. 


sons  of  lh.it  description  as  their  mirrors  and  their  dependants, 
the  I'ine  Orchard  would  be  as  much  resorted  to  as  Saratoga 

itself 

Soon  after  my  arrival,  while  I  stood  on  the  projectmff 
shelf  of  rock,  which  actually  overhangs  for  some  distance 
the  precipice  just  in  front  of  the  hotel,  and  commands  he 
valley  of  the  Hudson  for  sixty  or  seventy  miles,  with  the 
uplands  beyond,  and  several  summits  in  Connecticut  and 
Massachusetts,  admiring  the  serenity  of  the  sky,  I  observed 
a  cloud,  sliaped  like  a  mushroom,  and  like  ,t  white  as  snow 
above  and  dark  below,  moving  slowly  down  from  the  upper 
part  of  the  river's  course.     None  other  was  m  sight,  and 
this  was  at  least  a  thousand  feet  below  me.     I  soon  per- 
ceived  that   it  was   charged  with  lightning,  and  pouring 
down   a   plentiful  sliower.     Like  a  vast  watering-pot   it 
drenched  the  acres,  the  miles  over  which  it  Passed ;  and 
with  a  glass  I  could  imagine  some  of  the  feelings  of  the  in- 
habitants  of  the  farm-houses  and  villages  over  which  it  sue- 
cessively  moved,  as  they  were  hwolyed  in  us  f  ^dow,  awed 
by  it"  thunder,  and  in  turn  restored  to  the  light  of  the  sun. 
The  habitations  of  men  appear  from  that  eminence  like  the 
shells  and  coats  of  insects  ;  and  it  costs  an  exertion  to  real- 
ize that  human  interests  can  be  of  importance  enough  to 
claim  serious  attention  to  those  things  on  which  wealth  or 
subsistence  depends.     Man  has  become  a  microscopic  ob- 
ject •    and  how  paltry  seems  the  least  diminutive  of  his 
race '     And  the  importance  of  a  claim  to  this  or  that  speck 
of  earth  or  water  called  a  home-lot  or  a  fishing  privilege, 
appears  consummately  ridiculous.    Poor  creatures,  why  not 
learn  to  be  content  with  what  is  necessary,  assist  those  wha 
are  in  want,  and  turn  to  subjects  worthy  of  attention  and 
love]     But  it  is  the  vice  of  the  insect  that  he  prefers  the 
eround,  and  refuses  to  spread  the  wings  with  which  he 
might  fly  to  a  loftier  and  purer  region.     "  De  gustibus  non 
disputandum,"  said  the  aeronaut,  wliose  pig  squealed  as  he 
rose  in  the  air,  and  tried  to  nose  his  way  through  the  bottom 

of  his  parachute.  ,     ,     , 

The  singular  cloud  pursued  its  way  slowly  down  over  a 
space,  1  presume,  of  twenty  miles,  deluging  the  country,  as 


OVNTAINI. 

mirrors  and  their  dependants, 
nuch  resortc '  to  as  Saratoga 

Is  I  stood  on  the  projecting 
overhangs  for  some  distance 
tlie  hotel,  and  commands  the 
ly  or  seventy  miles,  with  the 
summits  in  Connecticut  and 
jrenity  of  the  sky,  I  observed 
am,  and  like  it  white  as  snow 
r  slowly  down  from  the  upper 
one  other  was  in  sight,  and 
feet  below  me.     I  soon  per- 
with  lightning,  and  pouring 
Like  a  vast  watering-pot   it 
s  over  which  it  passed;  and 
3ome  of  the  feelings  of  the  in- 
md  villages  over  which  it  suc- 
>  iiwolvwl  in  its  shadow,  awed 
eslored  to  the  light  of  the  sun. 
ar  from  that  eminence  like  the 
md  it  costs  an  exertion  to  real- 
i  be  of  importance  enough  to 
ose  things  on  which  wealth  or 
las  become  a  microscopic  ob- 
s  the  least  diminutive  of  his 
jf  a  claim  to  this  or  that  speck 
lome-lot  or  a  fishing  privilege, 
ilous.    Poor  creatures,  why  not 
t  is  necessary,  assist  those  wha 
nbjecis  worthy  of  attention  and 
the  insect  that  he  prefers  the 
sad  the  wings  with  which  he 
rer  region.     "  De  gustibus  non 
naut,  whose  pig  squealed  as  he 
lose  his  way  through  the  bottom 

led  its  way  slowly  down  over  a 
miles,  deluging  the  country,  as 


SVNRISE  SCENB. 


197 


I  afterward  learned.    Where  all  the  water  came  from  I  could 
not   imagme;   neither   could  I  see  whence  came  all  the 
douds  which  afterward  overspread  the  valley  of  the  Hudson. 
Wuring  a  thunder-storm,  which  threw  its  lightning  and  ut- 
tered Its  thunders  over  a  great  space  beneath  us,  we  enjoyed 
almost  uninterrupted   sunshine.     At   length  a   commotion 
began  among  the  clouds  in  the  south,  where  a  cluster  of 
small  and  rounded  eminences,  like  the  hills  of  an  old  corn- 
field,  showed  the  Highlands  (now  robbed  of  their  sublimity); 
and  a  wmd  blowing  through  that  pass,  rolled  up  the  vapours 
in  heaps,  l.ke  snowballs,  increasing  as  they  proceeded,  till 
they  were  all  flying  northward,  as  if  in  haste  to  escape  from 
view,     rhetr  forms  and  agitation  reminded  me  of  the  con- 
sternation of  a  panic-struck  army:  and  a  few  small  clouds 
came  pouring  over  the  heights  above  our  heads,  and  min- 
glmg  with  them,  like  timid  confederates  afraid  to  await  the 
wrath  of  some  unseen  conqueror.    Almost  all  this  time,  two 
rainbows  of  the  brightest  colours  stood  just  before  us,  with 
their  feet  planted  upon  the  green  foliage,  fifty  yards  or  more 
below  the  precipice,  forming  arches  -.vhicli  approached  three- 
quarters  of  a  circle,  with  the  most  splendid  colours  imagi- 
nable  especially  about  the  keystone.    The  glittering  aspect 
which  the  landscape  afterward  assumed,  with  the  motions 
of  the  sads  on  the  river,  the  singing  of  the  birds  around  us. 
and  the  colours  of  the  sky  in  a  beautiful  sunset,  left  the  heart 
and  mind  in  a  lofty  tone  to  await  the  solemnities  of  night 

After  a  period  of  calmness  all  around,  when  the  air  had 
been  undisturbed  for  about  two  hours,  lightning  began  to 
flash,  and  thi:iider  to  roll  beneath  us ;  and  during  several 
hours,  the  whole  valley  seemed  overflowing  with  the  sounds 
of  battle.  The  evening  passed  amid  the  comforts  and 
light  of  the  great  parlour,  in  a  social  circle,  now  enlarged 
by  the  addition  of  several  friends  unexpectedly  found  in  that 
aerial  retreat. 

A  few  glimpses  at  the  moon  and  the  landscape,  after  mid- 
night, fr„„i  the  window  of  my  bedroom,  occupied  my  fre- 
quent  waking  moments ;  and  as  soon  as  I  o.yM  percei4  the 
first  blush  of  dawn,  I  dressed,  and  hastened  to  the  roof  of 
the  hotel,  to  watch  the  approach  of  day,  to  a  scene  whose 


I 


198 


CATTSKILt  MOUNTAINS. 


whiteness  made  me  suppose  it  had  been  covered  with  snow. 
There  was  more  sublimity  to  be  feasted  upim  every  moment 
that  passeu,  than  some  people  witness  in  their  whole  lives. 
What  a  grovelling  soul  that  must  be  which  prefers  a  morrn 
ing  slumber  to  such  a  sight !  When  the  spirit  of  a  man  is 
once  roused,  his  senses  oppose  no  resistance  to  his  wdl. 
Let  a  spark  of  glory,  from  such  a  scene,  once  kindle  his 
heart ;  and  sight,  hearing— his  whole  animal  nature— are 
roused  and  ready  to  do  their  parts.  Let  the  master  but 
appear,  and  the  slaves  will  obey. 

The  fresh  and  unbrealhed  morning  air,  the  glowing  east, 
the  boundless  scene,  made  me  feel  as  if  released  for  ever 
from  weariness  and  care.    As  the  light  increased  in  the  sky 
to  a  broad  glow,  it  gave  something  of  its  hue  and  brilliancy 
to  a  sheet  of  whiteness  which  overspread  the  whole  valley 
of  the  Hudson,  for  not  less  than  twelve  or  fifteen  miles  m 
width  and  thirty  or  more  in  length.    How  so  heavy  a  snow- 
storm could  have  prevailed  there  in  summer,  I  could  not 
divine ;  but  every  hill  and  wood  was  covered,  and  nothmg 
could  be  discovered  below  the  higher  uplands  except  the 
course  of  the  river,  like  a  dark  line  traversing  the  scene 
from  north  to  south.    A  bright  red  glare  at  length  lay  across 
the  whole  vale  between  me  and  the  sun ;  which,  when  he 
rose,  was  increased  almost  to  the  glitter  of  polished  metal. 
The  beams  struck  upon  the  neighbouring  heights,  and  the 
few  remaining  trees  of  the  ancient  pine  orchard  near  me, 
which  once  stood  in  rows,  as  if  planted  by  the  hand  of 
man.     The  birds  chirped,  and  the  cocks  began  to  crow  at 
the  base  of  the  mountain ;  and  peak  after  peak  grew  bright, 
till  it  became  broad  day  to  the  whole  world  around. 

I  wi;s  now  surprised  to  see  something  like  a  white  sheet 
lifted  gradually  up  from  the  opposite  bank  of  the  Hudson, 
showing  a  few  fields,  houses,  roads,  and  wood-lots  beneath 
it ;  and  gradually  mile  after  mile  was  thus  slowly  laid  bare 
by  the  removal  of  a  thin  covering  of  dense  white  mist,  which 
was  slowly  rolled  off  clean  by  the  south  wind,  and  revealed 
to  my  eye  many  of  the  hills  and  valleys,  the  farms  and  vil- 
lages, the  meadows  and  slopes  of  three  counties,  the  abode 
of  some  liionsands  of  inhabitants. 


(OVNTAINS. 

t  had  been  covered  with  snow, 
be  feasted  upim  every  moment 
!  witness  in  their  whole  lives, 
nust  be  which  prefers  a  morrk- 

When  the  spirit  of  a  man  is 
ise  no  resistance  to  his  will, 
uch  a  scene,  once  kindle  his 
liis  whole  animal  nature — are 
ir  parts.  Let  the  master  but 
bey. 

morning  air,  the  glowing  east, 
e  feel  as  if  released  for  ever 
\  the  light  increased  in  the  sky 
nhing  of  its  hue  and  brilliancy 
ih  overspread  the  whole  valley 
lian  twelve  or  fifteen  miles  in 
ength.  How  so  heavy  a  snow- 
there  in  summer,  I  could  not 
rood  was  covered,  and  nothing 
he  higher  uplands  except  the 
Jark  line  traversing  the  scene 
[it  red  glare  at  length  lay  across 

and  the  sun ;  which,  when  he 

0  the  glitter  of  polished  metal, 
neighbouring  heights,  and  the 

ancient  pine  orchard  near  me, 
as  if  planted  by  the  hand  of 
ind  the  cocks  began  to  crow  at 
nd  peak  after  peak  grew  bright, 
he  whole  world  around. 
ce  something  like  a  white  sheet 
;  opposite  bank  of  the  Hudson, 
3,  roads,  and  wood-lots  beneath 
mile  was  thus  slowly  laid  bare 
ering  of  dense  white  mist,  which 
by  the  south  wind,  and  revealed 

1  and  valleys,  the  farms  and  vil- 
pes  of  three  counties,  the  abode 
itants. 


A  GRAMMAR  SCHOOL 


199 


All  these  sights,  and  more,  were  offered  to  mv  view  anrf 
all  their  mdescribable  impressions  to  my  mind  fn  the  ;hor? 
space  of  twenty  hours,  which  limited  my  visit  A  rice  of 
two  miles  took  us  to  the  lakes  and  the  cascad  s,  L  tv" 
«.  a  sight  down  the  Clove,_a  deep  and  declining  moumai„! 
pass  through  which  the  stream  that  flowed  beside  uTnT 
-ues  US  headlong  way,  after  its  two  leaps  of  1 75  a„d  85  fe    " 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

in  vigour  or  capacity  by  ti  ^ZZTltr'TZt 
as  might  be  wished-for  a  giant  is  not  senSe  S  J  s  ow„ 
growth.  I  am  sure,  however,  that  I  was  oftnn  f,ll«.i  .u 
rfisgust  at  a  language  which  I  ought  trhave  been  maH? 
ove;  viewed  with  jealousy  and  rLentmem  my  teacher  and 
lu  UoTtT'  ^^^P--y«-  of  misanthropy  and  of  di"^ 

lated  widel/i„  my  views^  of^re  lite"'  °""  '^"^- 

and  witnessed'a  numberof  boys  engareSmTrV''"'  '^''^ 
Ployments;  and  to-day  sometLgSpeedT^^^^^^^ 
Uoned  in  conversation^  which  hafrecE    hi  "VaT 
pantion,  in  the  seat  of  an  examiner,  at  the  schoolof  mJ 
speak,  seemed  to  strike  a  cliill  tiirouirh  thp  «  ^ 


200 


HUDSON  RIVER. 


\ 


turns  with  that  fatal  spur,  emulation ;  that  alcohol  of  the 
intellect,  that  labour-saving  instrument  to  which  the  ignorant 
and  ihe  indolent  teacher  ever  resorts,  because  it  easily  ex- 
cites  that  attention  which  ho  ought  to  produce  by  displaying 
the  attractions  and  the  practical  use  of  learnmg. 

One  inleresiing  youh,  at  the  head  of  his  class,  intoxicated 
with  praise,  and  desp.ralely  fearing  a  fall  »  from  h.s  high 
estate,"  showed  extreme  a-T-iation  in  his  eye,  ins  cheeii,  and 
his  voice;  and  experienced  emotions  more  exhausting  to 
his  mind,  I  liave  no  doubt,  than  the  labour  of  mastering  three 
such  lessons.     Anollier,  smiling  with  the  consciousness  o 
a  task  well  performed,  and  the  anticipation  of  a  successful 
recitation,  failed  through  an  amiable  diffidence  lo  retain  his 
presence  of  mind  ;  and  from  one  accidental  error  fell  into  a 
labyrinth  from  which  he  coidd  not  recover  his  way,  and 
sinking  into  his  seat,  with  swelling  veins,  sobbed  and  wept 
till  the  close  of  the  exercise.     A  third,  after  passing  unhurt 
the  ordeal  of  construing  and  parsing,  was  treated  with  a 
contemptuous  expression  by  the  teacher  for  a  paltry Jault 
in  not  discriminating  between  "the  use  of  the  poets    and 
"position"  in  giving  the  rules  for  scanning;  and  I  saw  nis 
evil  genius,  an  irritable  temper,  which  ought  to  have  been 
systematically  pacified  by  a  judicious  treatment,  rise  and 
drive  his  feelings  almost  to  desperation.    This  was  as  much 
as  I  could  bear,  and  I  was  glad  to  retreat  from  such  an  m- 
telleclual  and  moral  inquisition.  .       ,    .  . 

A  short  interview  wiih  one  of  those  active  bemgs  who 
have  shared  in  the  excitement  and  labours  of  our  new  and 
distant  settlemenls,  or  beat  tlie  bush  in  advance  of  civili- 
zation, conveys  more  lively  ideas  of  what  is  actually  going 
on  there,  than  reading  all  the  essays  and  statistics  in  the 
world      Now  and  then  we  meet  a  stray  one  m  this  part  of 
the  country.      He  looks  like  a  wild  bird  in  an  aviary,  or 
amid  a  yard  of  domestic  fowls  :  so  regular  and  orderly  and 
stupid  .lo  we  all  feel  in  his  presence.      Two  or  tliree  such 
characters  1  have  r.illcn  in  with ;  but  it  is  impossible  to  get 
a  regular  narration  out  of  tlicm  of  greater  length  than  a  lew 
niinut.s.     Thcv  li;ive  brouirlil  thrir  restless  aciiviiy  along 
Willi  ihem,  and' seem  plo>iLally  un.ible  to  be  quiet.     One 


(  RIVER. 

mulation;  that  alcohol  of  the 
itrumrni  to  winch  the  ignorant 
r  resorts,  because  it  easily  cx- 
)ught  to  produce  by  displaying 
•ill  use  of  learning, 
e  head  of  his  class,  intoxicated 
fearing  a  fall  "  from  his  high 
alion  in  his  eye,  his  cheek,  and 
emotions  more  exhausting  to 
n  the  labour  of  mastering  three 
ing  with  the  consciousness  of 
lie  anticipation  of  a  successful 
amiable  diffidence  to  retain  his 
one  accidental  error  fell  into  a 
idd  not  recover  his  way,  and 
veiling  veins,  sobbed  and  wept 
A  third,  after  passing  unhurt 
d  parsing,  was  treated  with  a 
r  the  teacher  for  a  paltry  fault 
en  "  the  use  of  the  poets"  and 
!s  for  scanning ;  and  I  saw  his 
iper,  which  ought  to  have  been 
I  judicious  treatment,  rise  and 
lesperation.    This  was  as  much 
/lad  to  retreat  from  such  an  in- 
ion. 

ne  of  those  active  beings  who 
!nt  and  labours  of  our  new  and 
;  the  bush  in  advance  of  civili- 
ide-is  of  what  is  actually  going 
he  essays  and  statistics  in  the 
meet  a  stray  one  in  this  part  of 
i.e  a  wild  bird  in  an  aviary,  or 
ivls  :  so  regular  and  orderly  and 
presence.  Two  or  ilirce  sucli 
wiih;  but  it  is  iinpossilde  to  get 
icm  of  groiitcr  length  llian  a  few 
lijhl  their  restless  activity  uloiig 
iailly  un.ible  to  be  quiet.     One 


A  BACKWOODSMAN. 


201 


boaf  ""nf  h'??  ""^  '"'""":'  ''  ^°°"  ^'  I  '^''  '»«•  i"  the 
knew.  "  everywhere-why,  or  how.  I  never 

"  Was  you  ever  in  St.  Louis  ?  New-Orleans  ?'•_»  Ah 
mon  am, !"_»  At  Detroit?"--  There's  a  rough  set  of  M- 
lows.  I  was  one  of  the  first  on  the  Upper  H  -on!  1,'a  eett  nl 
settled  now  fast  with  people  from  New-York.  '-"  Have  ySS 
ever  been  along  to  the  north  of  Lake  Superior  ?"  He  was 
a  short  man  tn  a  bluejacket,  with  both  hands  on  a  double- 

"P,  lebt  I    should  murcept  any  of  the  view;  for  a  good 
woodman's  s.ght,  I  believe,   sweeps  three-quarters   oJ    a 

If  he  had  been  used  to  long  grass  and  snakes ;  and  although 
h.s  age  was  probably  fifty,  every  nerve  was  full  of  activity 
every  hmb  o  vigour,  and  every  motion  and  word  of  S 
pendence  and  fearlessness. 

lnw'/""i  "h  i''"  -'^^f '««'PPi  they  are  an  active  set  of  fel- 
lows, said  he;  "they  can  build  steamboats  and  launch 
them,  and  run  them,  and  blow  them  up  about  as  quick  as 
any  other  people  ^  Shoal  a-head  !'  yoS'll  hear  'emT  g  ou 
--'Howdoyou  know?'-.  Why,  she  ripples.'-' Well  sit  on 
the  safet3'-valve,  and  jump  her  over!'  That's  pleasant  iT 
•ng  enough,  to  be  sure,  where  you  find  the  watermen  nter-" 
pnsmg  so ;  but  ii'«  cruel  to  see  the  deer  come  dow.r  to  he 
hore  to  drmk,  and  not  stop  to  go  after  them  with  your  riie! 

Ontadi  ?;"" '  '  ''"  ^°"-  '""''  '  '-^^»  -'ong  Lake 
Ontar  0.  1  here's  some  woods  there,  but  not  much  game ; 
yet  I  thought  u  was  fine  fun  to  be  all  alone  with  Lold 

where  do  you  thmk  I  was  next  ?     Why,  after  being  at  Cm- 

to  rlrn  '  ^°"''  ''r\  ''''  '^'"'S  -nJ  another,  I  got  o« 
to  Green  Bay,  among  the  Indians.  There's  a  set  of  hones 
fellows  for  you.  You  needn't  have  anybody  to  go  S 
you  and  say  th.s  ts  Mr.  such  a  n.an.  All  /ou've'got  to 
do  s  ifjou  come  across  a  bear  or  a  deer,  just  shoot  them 
and  leave  them  on  the  ground ;  and  the  first  wigwam  vTu 
come  to,  say,  'Friend,  I've  come  among  you  LTuZ 

18 


w 


202 


HVD80N  RiVKR. 


while  to  stay;  I  iloii'i  want  any  thing  but  just  to  shoot  my 
rifle  once  in  a  wliilc— There's  a  bear  or  a  deer  just  back 
in  the  woods,  which  any  of  you  can  liave  il'  you  want  it.'  I 
tell  you  what,  if  ihey  won't  treat  you  like  the  biggest  man ! 
And  you  needn't  do  any  more  than  this :  the  story  wdl  go 
before  you  ;  and  wherever  you  come  they  know  you ;  and 
how  you  can  shoot  a  bear,  or  a  deer,  as  the  case  may  be. 
Well,  then  1  thought  I  would  go  where  there  wasn't  so 
much  civilization  ;  for  I  wanted  to  see  more  of  the  Indiana  ; 
and  I've  been  through  that  country  all  along  a  good  piece 
north  of  Lake  Superior." 

» Do  you  know  that  district?"  inquired  a  listener.  "Ask 
my  gun,"  replied  the  speaker.  "  1  was  there  six  weeks,  all 
alone,  among  as  good  game  as  ever  fell  under  a  muzzle. 
That's  the  life :  get  two  or  three  days'  provisions  of  venison 
or  bear's  meat  on  your  back,  shot-bag  full,  powder-horn  full ; 
and  then,  if  you  meet  an  Indian,  or  a  while  man,  or  any 
thing,  you  can  befriend  them.  But  you  want  to  know  some- 
thing of  folks  before  you  can  trust  them.  The  Green  Bay 
Indians,— I  should  feel  safe  among  them  to  lie  right  down 
on  the  ground,  in  the  woods,  between  two,  and  sleep  all 
night.  Why,  a  man  would  be  a  great  deal  safer  so  than  he 
would  be  in  Broadway,  in  New-York,  with  fifty  dollars  in 
his  pocket,  at  eleven  o'clock  at  night. 

»  They  are  good  fellows  ;  but  I'm  ready  to  shoot  vyith  any 
of  them :— walking,  running,  swimming,  diving,  flying,  any 
way.     I've  shot  witii  Egg  Harbour  fellows  on  the  wing,  and 
I'll  try  with  an  Indian  any  way  he  likes,  till  they  come  to  a 
sitting  mark  and  a  dead  rest ;  and  then  I've  done  with  him." 
After  the  capture  of  the  forts  on  the  highlands  by  the 
British,  in  1777,  and  breaking  the  chain  stretched  across 
the  Hudson,  at  West  Point,  they  sailed  up ;  and,  as  I  have 
been  informed,  burnt  a  brig  in  Saugerties  Creek.     They 
had  a  man  on  board,  of  Dutch  extraction,  who  pointed  out 
the    dwellings    of  persons    particularly  obnoxious    to  the 
enemy.    On  passing  the  liouse  where  Wasliington  had  been 
quartered,  tlic^y  fired  a  shot  through  the  roof.     They  burnt 
a  brig,  loaded  vvitli  tea,  in  Saugeilies  Creek,  and  Mr.  Liv- 
ingston's house  opposite  and  several  others. 


UVKR. 

ly  thing  but  just  to  shoot  my 
1  a  bear  or  a  deer  just  back 
I  can  liave  ii'  you  want  it.'  I 
at  you  like  the  biggest  man  ! 

than  this :  tlie  story  will  go 
1  come  they  know  you ;  and 

a  deer,  as  the  case  may  be. 
1  go  wlicre  there  wasn't  so 
il  to  see  more  of  the  Indians  ; 
iutry  all  along  a  good  piece 

?"  inquired  a  listener.  "Ask 
"  1  was  there  six  weeks,  all 
18  ever  fell  under  a  muzzle, 
ee  days'  provisions  of  venison 
lot-bag  full,  powder-horn  full ; 
dian,  or  a  white  man,  or  any 
But  you  want  to  know  some- 
trust  them.  The  Green  Bay 
mong  them  to  lie  right  down 
I,  between  two,  and  sleep  all 
a  great  deal  safer  so  than  he 
ew-York,  with  fifty  dollars  in 
tt  night. 

ut  I'm  ready  to  shoot  with  any 
swimming,  diving,  flying,  any 
rbour  fellows  on  the  wing,  and 
ly  he  likes,  till  they  come  to  a 
and  then  I've  done  with  him." 
brts  on  the  highlands  by  the 
ig  the  chain  stretched  across 
hey  sailed  up ;  and,  as  I  have 
in  Haugerties  Creek.  They 
•h  extraction,  who  pointed  out 
particularly  obnoxious  to  the 
iv  where  Wasliington  had  been 
through  the  roof.  They  burnt 
iaugeilies  Creek,  and  Mr.  Liv- 
several  others. 


FASHIONABtE  Itt  HEALTH.  203 

sttlln.l  by  I-rencb  Huguenots,  who  emigrated,  after  a  Ions 

nT  tl^l'n";  ,"•;"""''   '""''"'   -'"y^"«eh    connexionf 

»U  ihgenee.      Another  settlemont  of  the  same  kind  was 

made  bdow,  at  the  Strand,  ot.e  of  the  landi.tgs  of  King- 

bletown.  They  chose  the  best  soil.  A  (icrman  settlement 
was  made  west  of  the  Catskill  Mountains.  AtTappan  was  a 
real  Dutch  settlement,  ..nd  Newburgh  was  a  colony  of  Irish. 

olZlTr" IT'''"^  '  fellow-passenger,  who  spoke  from 
personal  knowledge,  «is  at  a  low  ebb.  The  intelligence 
of  the  ongirral  French  faded  away  amid  their  scattered  set- 
U  men ts  and  the  dangers  and  trials  of  their  situation,  along 
with  the  anguage.  The  schools  have  been  few  and  poor 
Ihe  academy,  founded  at  Newburgh  many  years  aJ  ha, 
produced  considerable  eflects.  Governor  ClhUon  thS; 'e! 
oe.ved  ail  important  part  of  his  education,  as  well  as  a  num. 

sioi^s.     He  probably  learned  here,  from  observation,  the  im- 

portance  of  public  education,  of  which  he  became  a  most 

efficient  advocate." 
"  See  how  much  better  I  feel  already,"  said  a  young  lady 

to  her  father,  as  they  sat  down  at  breakfast;  "  I  feef  quite 
hungry,  and  have  no  doubt  that  by  the  time  I  have  been  a! 
the  Springs  a  week  or  two,  if  I  have  exercise  enough,  I 
"wLl"''  ^.'7f\«f-ient  to  set  off  for  Ning.rSll 
th2;    'S'"! '•''  ^"'^''^  ^^ho  seemed  to  be  absorbed  ia 
thoughts  of  his  business,  which  he  had  reluctantly  left  at  the 
city,  as  It  would  appear,  to  attend  his  daughter  on  a  tour 
for  pleasure,  under  the  pretext  of  health,-"  Well,  if  you 
get  ciired  of  your  dispepsia,  or  whatever  it  is,  it's  all  I  want 
I  am  hungry  too:  I  believe  this  air  is  good  for  us  both'' 
JNeither  of  the  two  had  sagacity  enough  to  perceive  th^t 
rising  two  hours  earlier  than'usual.  with'che  exd  eme"!  and 
exercise  they  had  experienced,  were  the  chief  causes  of 'Se 

wn  K'      i  5     ^  T'^  reasonable  system  of  life  at  home 
would  have  had  nearly  the  same  effect  on  them  every  day! 


204 


HUDSON  RIVER. 


And  this  is  the  simple  truth  in  respect  to  a  large  majonty  of 
those  who  travel  lor  their  healtli  every  season.  They  n.iglit 
avoid  the  symptoms  from  which  they  ruffer,  hy  foUowmg  a 
few  of  those  simple  rules  of  nature  from  which  we  never 
can  deviate  with  impunity;  or  if  they  have  become  enfee- 
bled  or  diseased  by  conformity  to  the  examples  oi  laslnon- 
able  life,  might  thus  soon  and  eflectually  recover  a  sound 
state  of  health.  No  apology  can  be  necessary  for  my 
quoting  here  the  adage  so  worn  out  by  frequent  repetitions 
in  my  youthful  ears,  because  now  it  is  entirely  obsolete 
among  many  circles,  and  will  sound  like  a  perfect  novelty. 

««  Early  to  bed  nnd  oarlv  to  rise, 
Will  make  you  healthy,  wealthy,  and  wise. 

Retire  and  rise  early;  aim  low  in  matters  of  show ;  and 
in  things  of  solid  worth  let  none  shoot  at  a  higher  mark  than 
vou.  Plan  something  useful  every  day  ;  do  somethmg  good 
every  hour,  and  love  something  good  every  >no"ient.  Ke- 
JectThe  foolish  conceit,  that  any  thing  like  useful  labour  can 
be  dishonourable.  Introduce  your  ham.s  and  feet  to  such 
services  as  they  were  designed  for ;  whde  you  occi|py  your 
mind  with  the  contemplation  of  subjects  worthy  of  its  na- 
ture, and  your  heart  with  those  pure  affections  on  which 

""Z^  T;^^L  poor,  puny,  spoiled  chiM !  Every  one. 
even  the  plainest  of  these  doctrines,  had  been  efleciually 
ghut  out  from  her  education.  Thousands  had  been  expended 
on  teachers,  books,  and  instruments  ;  bvt  it  seemed  as  il  no 
a  pennyworth  of  good  discipline  or  instruction  had  reached 

her  head  or  her  heart.  •         r  „„  .,«,. 

Amid  a  lively  conversation  on  various  topics,  ol  no  par- 
ticular  interest,  I  heard  one  remark  wliWi  startled  me  :— 
»  New-York,"  said  a  female  voice,  "  is  a  city  of  the  greatest 
taste  in  America."  The  speaker  was  a  milliner,  who  was 
on  her  return  to  a  country-town,  with  all  the  latest  fashmns, 
and  I  know  not  how  many  hundreds  of  dollars  worth  of 
silks,  velvets,  plumes,  hcee,  plush,  ribands,  and  straw,  bhc 
had  been  requested,  as  she  declared.V  seveial  of  the  ladte* 


RIVER. 

respect  to  a  large  majority  of 
ill  every  season.  They  might 
;h  they  niffer,  by  following  a 
nature  from  which  we  never 
»r  if  they  liave  become  enfee- 
J  to  the  examples  of  fashion- 
1  effectually  recover  a  sound 
y  can  be  necessary  for  my 
jrn  out  by  frequent  repetitions 
c  now  it  is  entirely  obsolete 
1  sound  like  a  perfect  novelty. 

Iv  to  rise, 

liy,  wealthy,  and  wise. 

low  in  matters  of  show ;  and 
ne  shoot  at  a  higher  mark  than 
jvery  day  ;  do  something  good 
ling  good  every  moment.  Re- 
my  thing  like  useful  labour  can 
!  your  hands  and  feet  to  such 
cd  for ;  while  you  occupy  your 
1  of  subjects  worthy  of  its  na- 
1080  pure  affections  on  which 

ny,  spoiled  child !  Every  one, 
doctrines,  had  been  effectually 
Tliousands  had  been  expended 
uments  ;  bvt  it  seemed  as  if  not 
iline  or  instruction  had  reached 

n  on  various  topics,  of  no  par- 
remark  wliWi  startled  me  : — 
voice,  "  is  a  city  of  the  greatest 
eaker  was  a  milliner,  who  was 
)wn,  with  all  the  latest  fashions, 
f  hundreds  of  dollars  worth  of 
plush,  ribands,  and  straw.  She 
ieclared.V  seveial  of  the  ladies 


A  TALKING  MILMNER. 


808 


of  her  neighbourhood,  to  make  inquiries  about  the  materials 
form,  and  texture  of  bonnets,  ha...  ha„dken.hiei:..rrev  J 
dresses  and  shoes.     As  an  accidental  want  of  so  „e  of  the 
refmements  of  speech  uu^hi  have  ren.lcrcd  her  i  IrLe 
among  her  own  society  ...newhat  doubtful,  she  TTZ 
pan,s  .0  mentmn  names,  characters,  an.l  conuoxion".  w  h 
the  exact  nature  of  ,he  commissions  .she  bore,  and  a  v  r  ny 
o   Ml  eresung  matter  relating  to  ways  and  n.^.ns  by   v    rh 
she  had  been  enabled  to  accomplish  them.     I  ...i.^u  1     1 
wondered.  1  suppose,  why  so  ,„any  sedate,  judi..].:,      dil 
interested,  and  even  literary  la.lies  could  f,.e/.so  „       .'a  t 
-ty  to  possess  such  oi-jeCs  ;  or  to  obtain  this  or  that  i. d  .  u 
fact  or  opnnon  Iron,  New- Vork  milliners ;  hut  I  was  .in 
i«hed  to  learn,  that  the  rap.d  narrator  had  „,et  so  I-  ^  .' 
ons  hke  herself  in  the  city,  bound  on  si.nilar  errat  I.     . 
oaded  w.th  just  s„eh  conunissiot.s,  from  towns  and  v  II  ^J 
eas^,  west,  north,  tuidsottth.  "The  improvements  in  n     IJ,! 
Uon.    as  a  lady  rcnutrked,  "  were  of  great  consequence  ;  ^,r 

as  the  Parisians  have  in  May;  and  so  be  only  about  four 
or  hve  weeks  behtnd  ,hem  all  the  year."  A  very  inte  cs.Z 
F.bhcat,on.  al«o  had  been  commenced  some  time  s  ^TS 

s^on  of  mtelhgence  n  relation  to  d.ess;  each  number  of 
which  contains  several  fine-coloured  engravings  of  costumes 
So  menonous  a  work  as  this,  and  one,  if  possible,  in  ad 
vance  of  the  spirit  of  the  age.  would,  no  doubt,  meet  ab  „ 
dant  support;  and  was  worthy  of  the  broken-down  French 
fancier  who  was  to  be  the  editor.  *  renca 

sue^Tn^;f^'^^^'  ^'  '"  ^  '"'■"*^''  =^^^'^y  '■'°'"  '^^  hearing  of 
such  intellectual  conversation,  here  is  betrayed  one  of  the 

cog-wheels  of  society.  Here  is  one  of  those  great  counteraa, 
.ng  mfluences  which  cause  so  much  waste  of  power  in  oir 
machine.  VVhoever  has  turned  a  crank,  or  pulled  or  pushed 
to  aul  the  advance  of  public  intelligence,  morals,  or'^rapl 
ness  and  wondered  why  his  exertions  proved  of  so  IhSe 
u«e,  let  him  just  look  here.  Here  is  enough  to  explain 
aorae  par.  of  his  difficulty.    Minds  and  hearts  oa  which  l2 

18* 


# 


206 


HVDSOM  RIVER. 


has  wished  to  make  impressions,  he  may  now  see,  were 
otherwise  employed ;  money,  a  Utile  of  whu^h  was  ncccs- 
sary  to  the  accomplishment,  was  rumung  out  m  llooda 
another  way;  while  principles  of  social  harmony,  dismter- 
estedness,  and  benevolence,  could  not  easily  be  cultivated, 
or  even  planted  on  ground  occupied  by  those  of  an  opposite 
nature.  Here  you  will  find  one  reason  why  incomes  arc 
not  always  equal  to  expenditures;  why  libraries  are  so 
small ;  the  fireside  so  much  deserted ;  schools  so  few  and 
so  poor  ;  frivolity  so  much  tolerated  ;  hoaUli,  in  a  thousand 
cases,  unnecessarily  exposed  and  life  sacrificed. 

Hut  do  not  let  me  drone  on  so,  while  this  is  a  note  of  the 
baKpipe  wliich  the  ladies  will  not  endure.     'Die  wives  and 
daughters  of  fellow-citizens,  of  all  classes,  will  unite,  il  m 
nothing  else,  in  putting  down  him  who  assails  their  cars 
with  such  unwelcome  sounds.     1  therefore  must  cease; 
otherwise  they  would  have  no  longer  peace  of  conscience  in 
refusing  dollar  and  half  dollar  contributions  lor  the  conilorl 
of  the  poor,  the  instruction  of  the  ignorant,  the  care  of  the 
acred,  insane,  or  infirm;  while  they  continue  yearly  to  be- 
stow ten  or  an  hundred  times  the  amount  on  such  wares  ot 
their  milliners  and  mantua-makcrs  as  they  know  to  be  (luitc 
unnecessary  for  comfort,  convenience,  and  every  thmg,  ex- 
cept— fashion. 


s 
J] 

0 

p 
li 

ir 
to 
a 
w 


RIVER. 

ions,  he  may  now  see,  were 

a  litlle  of  wliich  was  neccs- 

was  running  out   in   ilootla 

i  of  social  harmony,  disintcr- 

ould  not  easily  be  cultivated, 

cupiecl  by  those  of  an  opposite 

one  reason  why  incomes  arc 

litures ;  why  libraries  are   so 

deserted  ;  schools  so  few  and 

leratcd  ;  health,  in  a  thousand 

and  life  sacrificed. 

I  so,  while  this  is  a  note  of  the 

II  not  endure.  The  wives  and 
of  all  classes,  will  unite,  if  in 
ni  him  who  assails  their  ears 
ids.  1  therefore  must  cease ; 
0  longer  peace  of  conscience  in 
ar  conlribuiions  for  the  comfort 
if  the  ignorant,  the  care  of  the 
lile  they  continue  yearly  to  be- 
s  the  amount  on  such  wares  of 
lakcrs  as  they  know  to  be  (luitc 
nvenience,  and  every  thing,  ex- 


207 


1 


CHAPTEK  AXVii. 

America- Value  of  our  oZTo„ir'""«'~^   ^'"'"^'^   ^^i"'"'  "« 

-that  is  a  settled  ihin.r  •  J  „  "'""  '"">■'''• 

where,  !uu  at  ivIiMf  «l. -ill  ..,„       .    .   ;' ""-""'"!»[  I'e,  uhen, 

-i.i-:ndi„;u::':;:,::;;^:^;t.: '';:--!;'"«'"•  ^ot. 

oncc  that  the  jury-box  was  one  nf        V         ^      '""'"^  "''■"» 

Tor  thejury-ro'on?.  thaVL  7;,       o/le^'f  ^^  V       "! 
tears.    "Ail  this  "  i^  ih,,  i...,  I     'ilteinate  smiles  and 

believe,  an     pledge  ™t;^"'''^  °'^"""T'  '•^'  "  '  ^"'-'"'^ 
this  intdiigent  J^ry."^        '°  ^""""^  ^"  '^'  satisfaction  of 

I  was  once,  while  a  citizen  of  New- York    r.li    i  r 

.0  ™c„  seen  j,t;r  ,™r:;z':s,  °'X?j\:s':r 


208 


PRIVILEOES  or  JURORS. 


I 


•  CJentlpmcn  of  the  jury !'     Tlin  othrr  eleven  roso,  ami  1 
for  ail  irmtaiil  kept  inv  Kcat.     If  ihi-y  were  ueiillemeii,  I  eer- 
taiiily  was  not.     An'old  I'euKle  of  an  usurer  was  l)rou«ht 
up.  from  one  of  the  dark  ri'lreatn  of  niisi  ry,  to  prosecute  ii 
|)ale  and  ragifcil  man  for  the  recovery  of  a  debt.    The  eoun- 
sel  for  the  def.iiee  ph'aded  that  the  note  was  tainted  wUh 
UHury,  and  liroutrht  up  a  witneMs  to  prove  it.    He  swore  tliat 
the  iilainiill^   wife  roeeived  an   unhiwful  interest   for   tho 
money  in  her  husband's  pr.:senee,  and  lliat  thin  was  the 
eonmion  mamuT  in  which  iliey  conducted  Im.siness.      Wc 
were  fdh;d  witli  indiKuation  ;  and  to  express  our  reprol)atu)ii 
of  such  an  enormity,  found  a  verdict  for  defendant  without 
U'avmir  <nn-   scats.      We  liad  not  h'arned  a  h'sson  whudi  1 
was  afterward  taught  in  an  mfcrior  Irilmnal ;  l)ut  after  re- 
ceivinir  a  slnllini^  a  man.  siKlied  and  prepared  to  try  a  hm^; 
case  whicli  had  Ix  en  hmtr  in  court,  and  lead  a  hmj;  tail  to  it. 
Acpustionof  tile  trenuineiiess  of  certain  sijjnatures  occu- 
pied us  a  time  ;  (hiriiit;  which  I  was  struck  with  two  kinds 
of  saoacity;  tiiat  of  the  hank  clerks  and  others  in  judging 
of  handwritiiiff,  and  that  of  counsel  in  leadint;  them  to  nul- 
lify tlieir  own  teslitiiony  in  the  eyt^  of  a  juryman.     Several 
of  the  most  acute  of  the  former  had  previously  examined 
about  a  dozen  specimens,  and  fixed  on  a  portion  of  them  as 
genuine.     Several  of  these  had  now  been  withdrawn,  ami 
recent  imitations   put  in  their  place.     The  witnesses,  in- 
cautiously perhaps,  by  turns,  selected  what  cacii  supi.osed 
to  be  genuine,  while  the  comisel  kept  careful  notes  ol  their 
different  opinions,  dislinfruishing  the  specimens  by  private 
marks.     The  confused  result,  when  read  to  «s,  overthrew 
the  whole  force  of  their  testimony,  and  in  my  mind  human 
infallibility  received  a  blow  from  which  it  has  never  recov- 
ered.   This  part  of  the  trial  was  serious,  and  that  on  several 
accounts;  but  when  we  withdrew  to  the  jury-room,  and 
were  locked  up  together  to  determine  on  damages,  I  was 
compelled  to  laugh  in  the  midst  of  my  vexation.     Among 
twelve  men  there  were  immediately  proved  to  be  ten  of  one 
opinion.     Of  the  rest,   one  had  slept  through  the  whole 
trial,  and  the  other  knew  no  difference  between  the  coun- 
sel's peroraUon  and  the  judge's  charge.   It  was  even  doubt. 


(I 

8 
f( 
tl 

u 

V, 

P' 
ih 
cl 

P: 
th 

g' 
va 

su 

Cl 

so 

gl< 
tio 
in 

0V( 

wit 
ex( 
she 
Mo 


or  JURORS. 

'ho  other  cloven  roso,  ami  1 
If  ihi-y  wcio  uoiiiliMiu'ii,  I  fcr- 
;lt'  of  nil  U!*ur«T  w;is  l)rounht 
i!;it«  of  mist  ry,  U)  pitwocuto  ii 
(.(•ovory  of  a  iliht.  Tlie  coun- 
int  ihc  note  was  tainlcd  with 
!»s  to  prove  it.  He  swore  tliiil 
ill!  imhuvCul  intoroHt  for  this 
seller,  uikI  tliat  this  was  the 
ley  eoiului'ted  hii.siiiess.  Wo 
aii<l  to  express  our  repioliatioii 

verdiet  liir  (leleiKlaiit  without 

not  h'iinied  a  h'ssoii  whieh  1 
nterior  Irilxiiial ;  Init  alter  re- 
led  and  prepari  (1  to  try  a  Kjii^' 
court,  and  liad  a  hiiijr  tail  to  it. 
f>9s  of  certain  siifnalures  occu- 
li  1  was  siniek  with  two  kinds 
k  clerks  and  others  in  judt,^n« 
L'ouiisel  in  leading  them  to  nul- 
le  eyt^  of  a  juryman.  Several 
•mcr  lidd  previously  examined 
d  fixed  on  a  portion  of  them  as 
had  now  heeii  withdrawn,  and 
;ir  place.     The  witnesses,  in- 

aelectcd  what  each  supposed 
iisel  kept  careful  notes  of  their 
hing  the  specimens  by  private 
t,  when  read  to  «s,  overthrew 
timony,  and  in  my  mind  humaiv 
from  which  it  has  never  reeov- 
,vas  serious,  and  that  on  several 
ithdrew  to  the  jury-room,  and 
»  determine  on  damages,  I  was 
midst  of  my  vexation.  Among 
sdiately  proved  to  be  ten  of  one 

had  slept  through  the  whole 
0  difference  between  the  coun- 
je's  charge.   It  was  even  doubt. 


•MRATOOA  nATTLK-OROIfND. 


209 


fnl  whether  he  iia<!  yet  found  out  that  we  were  on  '  an  aeiioii 
ol  trovn  :   thoui-h  it  had  been  moHt  Hoiemnly  repeated  s..  often 
expressly  l„r  our  edification.    Hoth  of  ihcin  f.mn.i  u  f.ne  lire 
«)l   Hard  coal    burnin^r,  and  said,  in  eonseieiwe,  ^iv,.  a  ver- 
diet  for  plamiili;     A  new-h»,dit  repuhhi-aii,  not  many  y,.ars 
«in'  •  from  Kiiirland.  took  advantair,.  «f  ,he  oecasi'Mi  to  open 
i'  de batiii^r-club.  professing  to  have  just  become  a  httle  bee 
headed  on  tl...  subje.-i ;  and   in  spi„.  „f  ..v.ry  tiling,  began 
with  a  letjidar  perorution,  and  proceedid  through  an  ha- 
raiiKUP,  which  consumed  time  an.!  patience,  as  the  steam- 
•oats  consume  fuel.     For  my  part.  I  made  r.lleetions  during 
the  (ive  hours  we  spent  there,  which  I  have  never  since  ro. 
{H3ate.i  with  equal  solemnity.     After  all,  thought  I,  what  is 
l'"orty.  It  a  man  is  liable  to  be  torn  from  business  in  the 
day-time,  and  from  family  and  home  at  night,  because  a 
Htranger  m  his  country,  five  or  six  years  ago,  did  commit 
Jirgery;  because  two  or  three  lawyers  have  chosen  to  give 
I'f  question  all  possible  doubtfulness;  because  two  out  of 
twelvu  men  have  no  understanding,  or  no  honesty,  or  no 
warm  clothing:  for  by  this  time  I  began  to  perceive  a  dis- 
position  m  the  dissentients  to  yield  their  point,  and  observed 
tha   the  fire  had  sunk,  and  the  snow-storm  had  begiiu  to 
ehiil  the  room.     They  soon  agree.l  on  a  v.rdiet. 

I  visited  the  battle-ground  on  Hemis's  Heights  in  com- 
pany  with  several  friends  more  familiar  tlian'myself  with 
the  eireiism.anc.s  of  the  campaign  of  seventy-seven,  and  a 
fruidc  who  professed  to  have  b,.,,i  in  the  action.     The  ele- 
vation of  the  ground  is  much  nior.-  considerable  than  J  had 
supposed.     U  hen  we  began  to  as.-cnd  from  the  bank  of 
(.uin.niiigskill,  the  road  was  so  narrow  and  steep,  and  often 
so  much  overhung  by  trees,  as  to  bo  at  once  laborious  and 
Sloon.y.      I  he  impressions  were  increased  by  the  recollec- 
tion that  Uurgoyne's  army  had  marched  up  the  same  path 
in  the  anticipation  of  further  success,  and  a  final  victorv 
over  the  country.     Tlie  whole  field  of  battle,  then  covered 
with  forests,  except  two  cleared  fields,  is  now  unincumbered 
excej.t  by  a  few  lences  and  scattering  trees;  and  we  were 
shown  the  line  of  the  British,  with  the  routes  by  which 
Morgan,  Arnold,  and  our  other  officers  assailed  it  at  different 


210 


SARATOGA  BATTLE-GROUND. 


periods  of  the  action,  and  with  various  success.  I  hate  the 
details  of  slaughter,  ever  since  I  have  overcome  the  savage 
and  heathen  impressions  1  received  with  my  "  liberal  educa- 
tion." I  learnt  to  admire  them  from  the  notes  of  admiration 
with  which  the  classics  abound  for  those  notorious  butchers, 
who  in  former  times  did  so  much  business  under  different 
firms :— Alexander,  Hannibal  and  Co.,  Cssar  and  brothers. 
I  therefore  did  not  regret  that  the  battle  on  this  ground 
amounted  only  to  a  matter  of  a  thousand  or  so  killed  on 
both  sides— a  mere  skirmish,  in  the  opinion  of  an  European. 
General  Wilkinson  tells  facts  which  show,  that  there  was 
excitement  enough  here  tn  raise  in  some  individuals  the 
most  barbarous  and  blood-thirsty  spirit. 

Our  guide  appeared  sometimes  at  fault,  but  never  being 
disposed  to  acknowledge  it,  generally  found  a  reply  to  every 
question.  Two  of  the  party  differed  about  the  spot  on  which 
General  Frazer  fell,  and  inquired  of  him— "Where  was 
General  Frazer  wounded !"—"  Let  me  see,"  said  he,  "1 
believe  in  the  bowels,  pretty  much." 

I  heard  the  late  General  Van  Cortlandt,  a  colonel  m  the 
New- York  line,  and  participator  '.n  this  battle,  say,  that  he 
was  not  brought  into  action  until  late  in  the  afternoon  of  the 
29th  of  September,  when  he  was  ordered  by  Arnold  to  take 
post  beyond  the  left  of  our  line,  and  engage  in  action  or  not, 
as  he  might  judge  proper.     He  engaged  a  regiment  ot  Hes- 
sians,  of  whose  short  guns  our  soldiers  did  not  think  much, 
and  drove  them  back.     One  of  his  officers  was  wounded  by 
his  side,  and  he  placed  him  upon  his  horse.     While  pur- 
suing, he  met  a  regiment  of  British  light  infantry  on  his 
flank,  and  partly  in  his  rear,  advancing  and  firing,  but  with- 
out seeing  them  in  the  darkness.     He  halted  in  a  foot-path 
nearly  parallel  to  them,  about  a  foot  lower  than  the  surface 
of  the  ground,  ordering  his  men  not  to  fire  till  they  should 
see  the  enemy's  flash,  and  then  aim  a  little  below  it.     Di- 
rectly the  flash  was  seen  all  along  their  line,  the  fire  was  im- 
mediately returned,  and  this  checked  them.     He  then  went 
round  to  his  officers,  and  ordered  them  to  withdraw  quietly, 
and  returned  to  camp.    After  an  engagement  of  an  hour  and 
a  half,  he  had  lost  one  man  to  every  five  and  a  half  m  his 


ATTLE-OROUND. 

ith  various  success.  I  hate  the 
ice  I  have  overcome  the  siivage 
eceived  with  my  "  liberal  educa- 
em  froiTi  the  notes  of  admiration 
md  for  those  notorious  butchers, 
JO  much  business  under  different 
al  and  Co.,  Cffisar  and  brothers. 

that  the  battle  on  this  ground 
•  of  a  thousand  or  so  killed  on 
h,  in  the  opinion  of  an  European, 
cts  which  show,  that  there  was 
)  raise  in  some  individuals  the 
Lhirsty  spirit. 

letimes  at  fault,  but  never  being 
generally  found  a  reply  to  every 
f  differed  about  the  spot  on  which 
inquired  of  hirn— "  Where  was 
I" — "  Let  me  see,"  said  he,  "  I 
ty  much." 

I  Van  Cortlandt,  a  colonel  in  the 
lipator  '.n  this  battle,  say,  that  he 
1  until  late  in  the  afternoon  of  the 
he  was  ordered  by  Arnold  to  take 
line,  and  engage  in  action  or  not, 

He  engaged  a  regiment  of  Hes- 
1  our  soldiers  did  not  think  much, 
ne  of  his  officers  was  wounded  by 
lim  upon  his  horse.  While  pur- 
t  of  British  light  infantry  on  his 
ar,  advancing  and  firing,  but  with- 
rkness.  He  halted  in  a  foot-path 
bout  a  foot  lower  than  the  surface 
s  men  not  'o  fire  till  they  should 
1  then  aim  a  little  below  it.  Di- 
ill  along  their  line,  the  fire  was  im- 
lis  checked  them.  He  then  went 
ordered  them  to  withdraw  quietly, 
fter  an  engagement  of  an  hour  and 
an  to  every  five  and  a  half  in  his 


RE VOLTJTIONARY  ANECDOTES.  2 1 1 

«"r  i„.''*""'  "'"'^  '«  ^"'  °-  »"•  °f  .even  i„  five 
fto™diro.en,  person,  ,Z„';r,h:\tSLr,?',r 

rea*„  ■„  book,  and  only  ,epe».  Uvo  „  h     °    ,  tTL 
heard  from  private  sources      Wnr,l  m-        T  ,  "^^*^ 

charm,  because  it  con      s  feeHn  /  ani  Tatl   \  f '"  ^ 
understand.  ^  ^'    ^  ^^^^  everybody  can 

Ihe  •  Silver  f°,.„.!^'    ■      '  ™'"P«"y.  "I"*  Mas  called 
me    Oliver  Grays,"  m  allusion  to  Heir  hoarv  liair  <.,(  „(r  r 

the  scene  of  action  immediately,  and  »,s  Z  hi  T 

the  mornine  of  tlie  battle   in  iim„    „  i  *"""''  ™ 

it.  the  aitai  made  npt'l  "e    »:,  c  ,ed''IL'orth  "'"""' 
On  aeeomit  of  the  respectability  of  Ihe  l^a  ^ XS 

.ention  to  approach  their  object  thronl™  a  rllLT,,' h  he" 


V^ 


tlJ  BEVOUITIOKA«V  UHCOOTM. 

.tamed  led  in  Ihal  direeuon,  to  e„joy  all  the  shelter  it 
SVrford.     •  Captain.'  -aid  »  l"e«  ™''  P^''^  ">"'•  " 

iCil.orur.   teppi,.^^^^^^^^ 

you  Stand  sentry  over  the  baggage.  stenping 

^  -With  your  leave,  captain,'  said  the  old  man,  stepping 

-^^iaTsrit;t?7;M-:^ 

and  'nder  r,U«6.  ..  r""-".  """'^^^ 'J,'  eie'd 

:t^;Lrrprr;rt;n„r.7wr,;«^^ 

?h/  nd  of  thrravine,  the  captain  intended  to  fom  and  at- 

irrvrrititriiet;;;:^ 

f-ot    however,  and  just  then   seeing  a  red-coat  Hurrying 

It^ss  a  field  at  a  distance,  a  thouglu  came  into  Ins  head  to 
across  a  new  ax  ^^^^^  ^^^^  ^j^^    ^„„^ 

theTrr '  t:  Id  i^cU:Ld  up.  J^nped  into  the  fot. 
2i"a  montent  the  Sil.er  Gray,  had  eomplete  posse»,o„ 
of  h,  without  the  l"-;f  -  »  „;,'';'^  »- ,:«  iron,  the  late 

MiU™.    aSjoiSs    that  of    Ualhton.      This    region    wa. 

on    lie  banks   of  Kuyderos,  or  Kayderoseras  Brook,  tne 
frame  of  which  was  standing  near  the  academy. 


lRV  anecdotes. 

ion,  to  enjoy  all  the  shelter  it 
id  a  large  anil  powerful  man,  in 
forward,  pale  and  trembling,  '  I 
>  to  lead  back  the  horses.  '  Go, 
indignation  ;  '  we  shall  do  belter 

lumber.'—'  Deacon  • ,'  said 

elled  with  age,  '  you  are  too  fee- 
he  day.  It  is  my  pleasure  tliat 
aggage.' 

tain,'  said  the  old  man,  stepping 
.Idier's  sign  of  respect  to  a  su- 
air  of  a  youth  as  he  could, — 
ve  a  pull  at  'em  first.' 
cJ  their  admiration  at  his  spirit ; 
reduced,  succeeding  as  it  did  the 
in  a  younger  man,  they  marched 
the  enemy.     When  they  reached 
captain  intended  to  form  and  at- 
yei  be  at  some  distance  from  the 
on  looking  up  he  found  himsell 
lud  the  tories  taking  aim  at  him 
t  he  lay  upon  the  ground,  a  bullet 
,  foot ;  and  a  friend  near  him  ran 
him  killed.     He  sprang  upon  his 
then   seeing  a  red-coat  hurrying 
c,  a  thouglit  came  into  his  head  to 
c  cried  out — '  Come  on,  they  run, 
climbed  up,  jumped  into  the  fort, 
er  Grays  had  complete  possession 
Hie  of  their  number." 
obtained  a  few  facts  from  the  late 
,  relating  to  the  early  history  oi  the 
iring  watering-place.     The  village 
bin'  the  limits  of  the  township  of 
of    Ballston.      This    region    was 
mv  informant,  who  removed  hither 
V,  in  1769,  and  buiU  the  first  house 
eros,  or  Kaydcroseras  Brook,  tne 
iding  near  the  academy. 


LEUITRE  TIME. 


213 


look.,  .  for  stray  .attle;  and  the  Indians  ofien  cancl  om 
Oneula  to  hunt,  in  bodies  of  two  or  three  hundred  No 
Indians  however,  had  their  residence  in  this  vicin  tv-  m 
father  at  an  interview  with  Sir  WiUiam  Johnson,  o.ui  he  ird 

STL  X  oivr' r'"^  "'■''" ''"'"''  '-''■' '-  -::;IvSt 

ilie  bat  le  ol  Lake  George,  m  1755,  wliiel,  was  in  the  front 
F.rt  of  his  th.gh,  and  remained  open  till  he  d  ed      'Z 
pl.ysi.-.an«  afterward  recommended  to  Sir  WiUiai     ,„    S 
tJu..  Spring,  the  water  being  celebrate,!  at  Albany  and  She 
ne    ac  y  as  goo.l  in  some  diseases.     Sir  WilJiani,  therdb  e 
sent  about  ten  men  to  ch^ar  a  road  for  his  carriage,  or  h  ter 

bT  atd  n""'-t  ''  '".'^^""-"'  ""^''^^  '^'  clirec'ti^n  o  m'  .' 
Bal  ,  and  my  informant  dined  w„h  him  hi  a  large  marouee 
pitched  on  the  level  border  of  Ballston  Lake^  N  .i  hj 
same  p  ace  were  .he  log-houses  of  two  men  „  ed 
McDonald,  who  had  settled  there  about  seven  year  bl- 
fore  his  father's  arrival.  The  company  aftervva  d  pro- 
ceeded  to  the  Spring,  where  Sir  Wilhani  used  .he  wi  r 
but  without  any  material  benefit.  ' 

vpr*'"'  "^'""^'"'i  "'"  "^^  '^""''^  I  ™«y  "lention,  that  a  few 
yea.s  ago,  a  small  image  of  a  man,  made,  I  think,  of  tne 
wall  garnets  fbr  eyes,  was  found  near  tha  !i..le  Jake  '  r' 
mg  a  s,rong  resemblance  in  form  and  appearance  uTs;,; 
have  been  .aken  from  some  of  .he  western  mounds,"  .o.,: 
. ng  to  Mr.  Alwater,  and  .ending  .o  confute  us  s.ill    uore    a 

ti  r:of '.r "'"" '"  "'■'^'"  "'■  ^'"^  '"'■""■'•  ""-^"- « " 

uiis  part  ot  tl;c  country. 

J-eisure  time-here  is  a  por.ion  of  existence  which  ^s  to 

be  carefully  regarde.l  and  watched  over,  whether  it  belongs 

o  mdivKluals  or  to  connnuni.ies.     What  J.rogress   n  ktw 

e  jre  nug  t  the  most  humble,  even  .he  LS  bus;,^!^ 

-".  ke  m  the  course  of  his  life,  if  he  were  to  purs le'  .ome 

indtcous  plati  (or  the  occupation  of  his  leisur'e  luouie     " 

19 


314 


THK  8raW0»- 


„ightbepreventeJ^  P«^^^^^^^^^      of  the  unemployed  ume 
:rtCe':hoU\ft:d  Le  a.ange„.n.for  the  pur- 

r«^Uaveoa^ev;den.p.s.t^e^^^ 

leisure  time  at  the  •^«'"'"J"^  "' ^'""^  Europe,  and  those 
at  the  libraries  of  '""">''«\';"""  "^^^^^^^  as  tl^e  millions 
innumerable  CO  e^^^^^^^^^^^^^^  wodS,  from  the  pencils 

of  p.ctures  ^^''"^^^^^  „ere  gratification  of  taste,  or 

of  artists  who  laboured  lor  ""^  "^       f  discouragement, 

byadesperatehope  b-e  ^  E  l^sanL  of  talel  which 
Listen  to,  or  rather  iiunK  palace  of  every  coun- 

are  told  over  and  ^^^^fr*'// and  think  of  the  wear  and 
try  in  their  intervals  of  ^-^''^J '  ;^^;_  ''"  „ired  to  carry  on 
Jar  of  tongues  and  ears,^n^^^^^^^^  And- ^vhy  the 

the  tmle  tatt  e  o  f«";  "J  ''^^  „^  ,,  ,east  tired,  is  a  great 
.busy  memb  -  "  ^^^/^^.^^^  ^.^tting  rocks  ituo  pebbles 
wonder.     U  is  Hh-e  me  exertion  of  force  which 

and  grinding  ^he-  to  sand  wuh    n  ex    t.o^  ^^._ 

sure  time  should  be  nrsi  g  \^       which  are  merely 

„ents,  and  then,  if  P^^/^'l^'^^^j^^^her  act  on  this  simple 
'•^'"'f  aufhe  X    y  a  bait  which  must  bear  a  noble 

*  tri:rSplaces  we  meet  a  greatvariety  of  com- 

Pi"y*  „  oc.  if  wp  beffin  to  stray  into 

^  It'sometimes  seems  '^  ^r^^^^llZl\Ze.  I  have  been 
some  folly  as  soon  as  we  ^'^f" '«  ^J^^  ^^\,  ....uties  and 
listening  to  the  remarks  of  ^  gentleman  on 

perfections  of  the  «-- j-«  J  .^f.^L,  is  suci; 
own  honest  mind,  as  \7/^'""  "'",..  jf  ,,^  had  openly  be- 
an  impression  as  would  have  ''^;="  ^^'^  ^  ^^i"  jedand  or 
lied  our  country  and  --  ^  '\  ^^.^  P/t*;"  ul  I  am  dis- 
Gulliver's   lirobdignag.       Ihis   is  nov 


I 


RINGS. 

what  sufferings  and  crimes 
,n  were  made  in  every  village 
tiion  of  the  unemployed  time 
ne  arrangements  for  the  pr- 
esented of  the  great  amount  of 
of  different  individuals.     Look 
inuscripts  in  Europe,  and  those 
timings,  as  well  as  the  millions 

the  old  world,  from  the  pencds 
e  mere  gratification  of  taste,  or 
,  against  every  discouragement. 
I  the  thousands  of  tales  which 

by  the  populace  of  every  coun- 
,ur ;  and  think  of  the  wear  and 
,d  feelings  required  to  carry  on 
five  continents.     And'  why  the 
1  out,  or  at  least  tired,  is  a  great 
ean,  fretting  rocks  into  pebbles, 
with  an  exertion  of  force  which 
iruct  temples  or  pyramids.    Lei- 
uarded  against  injurious  employ- 
.,  against  those  which  are  merely 
and  the  teacher  act  on  this  simp  e 

a  basis  which  must  bear  a  noble 
ingle  day,  a  single  individual 
1 ;  how  much  more  a  parent  with 
the  benevolent  man  who  can  give 


s  we 


meet  a  great  variety  of  com- 


me  as  if  we  begin  to  stray  into 
begin  to  leave  home.  I  have  been 
,f  a  gentleman  on  the  beauties  and 
,„  language;  and  alll  find  in  my 
result  of  his  conversation,  IS  such 
have  been  left  if  he  had  openly  be- 
,„duded  by  preferring  Iceland  or 

This   is   not   because  I  am  dis- 


BEADTIB8  Of  THE  OKRMAN.  S|j| 

posed  to  underrate  German  or  any  other  language ;  but  be- 
cause  I  have  a  just  esteem  for  English.  I  dare  say  that  in 
my  heart  my  regard  for  German  is'equal  to  his  naj,  that  J 
should  value  ,.,  on  the  whole,  more  than  he.  I  do  L  ove 
C^sar  less,  but  I  love  Rome  more.  There  is  a  propensilv 
n  us,  under  the  influence  of  the  schools  we  have  pass  d 

us  and  to  seek  every  pretext  for  admiring  what  is  foreign. 
i  i  7i  "'^  '^!  '''""'  '^""demnation  to  myself-I  foulid 
It  first  and  have  observed  it  most  frequently,  in  myself     I 

credit  anywhere,  except  so  far  as  is  necessary,  when  I 
would  show  the  source  of  the  evil.  ^ 

anrM  »^'^'"  T''!!  ""'"^  '"'1"''"^  '°  ^'^"'"^  beauties  in  Greek 

on, ^nTfo^nf  """'''"?  ^''^^^^^^   '•  R-J,  substantial 
ones,  not  found  in  our  own  language  •  2.  Such  as  exist  m 
our  own  and  which  we  might  fa'r  more  perfectj,  a/we      ^ 
easily,  have  comprehended  in  English,  if  they  harbee^ 
pointed  out  to  us  :  3.  Defects  and  deformities,  or  false  beau" 
ties;  as  for  instance,  the  frequent  use  of  the  third  person 
singular  for  the  third  person  plural  in  Greek  verb  .YvS 
tton  of  grammatical  decency.     This  is  peculiar  to  G?eek 
we  are  told,  and  there  is  a  rule  fi.r  it.     There  is  an  "ex 
eeption  ;  for  u.  but  no  possible  apology.    But,  whether  good* 
bad,  or  indifferent,  this  i«  the  way  in  which  many  of  us  have 
been  educated  with  a  contempt  for  the  beauties^of  Englth; 
and  If  we  ever  obtain  a  relish  for  them,  it  is  only  by  the  in 

edtair  ""  ""'  ""  """  '"•"'^^  '^'^^'''"^  "^'  h'al'er  o" 
I  was  speaking  of  German.     Like  every  lan-ruaee  it  has 
us  peculiarities  when  compared   with  another -but  it 

be  m  some.     It  ,s  unjust  and  injurious  to  admire  its  excel, 
ences  and  overlook  those  of  English;  but  it  is  ridicuTou; 

resor  to  m  our  own  tongue,  for  use  or  embellishment  in 
our  d.seourse.     But  examples  are  most  to  our  purpose 

the  P?.    h    Vi."'"'^''^'"  «f  ^"'^'^^^  combinations;  so  is 
the  English.     They  may  take  a  verb,  liken  gehe„,  t^  go.  I 


216 


THE  8PRIN08. 


was   toUl,  and  by  prefixing   their  •"RWy-e-nr'-'V''  /'«" 
nosiiions,  Vi.ry  its   meaning  to  a  great  degree.     And   so 
?eft    X  dolie,  and  cnltivated  is  this  tongue,  that  "  slmdes 
of  ni^ning"  may  he  conveyed  from  mind  to  mn.d,  as  u  were, 
°  wS  no  oneean  conceive  who  is  unaeqnainted  wuh  tins 
J     perfect  vehicle  of  thought!"     Now,  ihe  very  expres- 
sion of     ch  a  prepostevons  senti.nent  (so  n,suhn,g,  .f  .  were 
not  too  ri<liculous  to  be  so),  called  to  my  mnul  good  Lng- 
hs  ,  ^rl    and  epithets,  simple,  componnd,  and  mixed,  enoug 
0  leak  its  back  and  sink  U.     Indeed,  the  language  seemed 
o  be  aroused  to  repel  such  a  Gotluc  mvas.on ;  and  nuny 
files  of  our  good  old  Saxon  words  mustered  out,  as  the 
f   Lr    d  d  !i  Bennington,  to  fight  the  Hess.ans       rhere 
w  s  especially  ("oloncl  Go  ami  h.s  lann  y  "'g-ent,  and  I 
recognised  Undergo,  Overgo,  Forego   w,ih  all  die  hits  ot 
Hygones,  the  Ingoings   and  the  Ou.gomgs,  an    I  know 
not  how  many  more.     "  Ah,  Captam  Invade  !    s.ud  1,     J  ou 
are    "goo-l  man,  1  may  want  you  by-and-by  to  go  nUo    ne 
enemv's  country ;  but  you  are  out  of  place,  you  do  not  be- 
™here""  Pardon,  sir,"  said  he;  "but  1  belong  to  the 

ij.     Didn't  one  o'' ^^  £^'— ^  ^^l^^^ 
from  Rome,  and  marry  her  that  was  — .  ir 

I,  "vou  are  right-Captain,  or  Centur.on  ^ -1«  ^;'-'  ^^  '^V, 
I  said  fro  into,  I  but  translated  your  name,  sir.  Just  so 
^id  hf;  "and  here  is  my  regmrent-let  -  .Produce  yet 
to  Maior  Evade,  :<nd  Lieutenant-colonel  Pervade.  1  bavc 
not  nn  oflker  o  a  rank  and  fde  man  who  .s  not  of  the 
S;:,;;;."  "Let  me  see,"  saulL"d.dnot^)^rUon.nan. 
rpstor  sometimes    spell   his  name  wUh  a  W?  1  hat, 

sa  J  leTl  l^ave  never  been  told,  but  I  have  suspected  .. 
I  have  never  heard  much  said  about  him,  and  have  lelt 
ll^os^asZed  of  him:  for  though  he  and  many  of  h.s 
family  had  served  under  the  Cssars,  he  emigrated  t.  a  ba.- 
brous  country.  So  far  as  I  have  found,  one  of  Ins  sons 
^Tr'd  an  O^,  and  I  believe  this  is  the  only  one  who  ever 
kept  both  the  mother's  name  and  the  W  1  he  others^  who 
snelled  with  a  V,  married  into  Roman  famdies.  However, 
fmustLk  at'the  books  of  herald^:  Johnson's,  and 
Walker's,  and  Webster's.     Sergeant  Wade  wiU  be  food. 


RINOS. 

their  liighly-cxpressivc  pre- 
10  a  great  degrree.  And  so 
d  is  Uiis  tongue,  that  "  sliades 
from  mind  to  mind,  as  it  were, 
who  is  unacqnainted  with  this 
^ht !"  Now,  liie  very  expres- 
ntiinent  (so  insuUing,  if  it  were 
called  to  my  mind  good  Eng- 
,  compound,  and  mixed,  enough 

Indeed,  the  language  seemed 
a  Gothic  invasion ;  and  many 
1  words  mustered  out,  as  the 
to  fiffht  the  Hessians.     There 
mil  his  family  regiment,  and  I 
,  Forego,  with  all  die  files  of 
iiid  the'  Outgoings,  and  I  know 
Captain  Invade  !"  said  I,  "  you 
It  you  hy-and-by  to  go  into  the 
re  out  of  place,  yo>i  do  not  be- 

said  he  ;  "  but  1  belong  to  the 
grandfathers  come  to  England 

that  was "    "True,"  said 

,  or  Centurion  Vado  ;  and  when 
ed  your  name,  sir."  "  Just  so," 
regiment — let  me  introduce  you 
tenant-colonel  Pervade.  I  have 
nd  file  mail  who  is  not  of  the 
said  I,  "  did  not  your  Roman  an- 
s  name  with  a  W?"  "That," 
en  told,  hut  I  have  suspected  it. 

said  about  him,  and  have  felt 
or  though  he  and  many  of  his 
e  Cajsars,  he  emigrated  to  a  bar- 
3  I  have  found,  one  of  his  sons 
eve  this  is  the  only  one  who  ever 
le  and  the  W.  The  others,  who 
into  Roman  families.  However, 
s  of  heraldry:     Johnson's,  and 

Sergeant  Wade  will  be  jood. 


THE  ENGLISH,  A  TOLERABLE  LANOt'AGK.  217 

if  we  have  shoal  water  to  cross;  and  Corporal  Outwade  is 
better  than  he." 

But  the  German  language  is  said  to  admit  of  other  combi- 
nations, with  peculiar  ease  and  force,  (for  I  cannot  give  a 
longer  report  of  this  grand  review  of  our  numerous  and 
effective   troops— our  great  army  of  Vernacuhirs).     And 
cannot  we  do  so  too?     Indeed,  can  we  get  along  without 
the  use  of  the  same  grammatical  join-hand  ?~l.Jc.,'e  signum  ! 
How  ,8  this  y,ovAjotn.hand  made?     Why,  juM  as  the  re- 
fined  and  elegant  German  makes  its  own  word  for  ^love-^ 
hand-sc  luh  (hand-shoe  !)     O,  the  inimitable  splendours  of 
the  subhmated  foreign  tongues.     Hand-schuh  !     It  is  true 
we  cannot  say  that  in  English  iov  glove,  but  we  may  use 
hand-saw    hand-pump,  hand-blow,  hand-clolh,  and  many 
other  combmations  we  find  convenient,  beside  making  it  a 
verb,  and  changing  it  into  handle  (as  a  noun,  an  active  an.t 
passive  verb),  nito  right  and  left-hand,  each  of  which  al«o 
may  become  an  active  or  passive  verb,  if  we  please,  or  may 
be  used  after  a  preposition,  or  as  an  adjective:  as  on  the 
right-hand —near  the  left-hand  corner,  &c.  &c. 

I  have,  perhaps,  said  too  much  on  this  subject;  but  I 

.hTr    r"'  '"/•  "'""** .'"  ''"^""S  our  language  tlUnated, 
hat  I  could  mi  forego  this  opportunity  to  repel,  resist,  anU 
throw  back  a  little  upon  the  aggressors.     And  who  can  utter 
a  sentence  m  English  without  admiring  the  rich  compound 
structure  of  the  language,  or,  perhaps,  not  less  extensive 
and  various  than  any  other  civilized  tongue  in  this  sort  of 
combmations,  when  we  include  the  Latin  branches  ?     How 
wonderful   is   the  range  afforded  us  in   conversation  antl 
writing;  and  how  adapted  to  every  purpose  the  familiar, 
brief,  forcible,  and  honest  Saxon  words,  ever  sWhw  readiest 
passage  to  a  gush  of  feeling,  whether  raided  by  a  witty  con, 
ceit,  swelled  by  joy,  or  melted  by  sorrow.     This  is  a  Ian, 
f  uage  by  itself,  and  yet  but  half  what  we  possess.     There  is 
the  Latin,  more  smooth  and  soft,  with  words  of  greater 
length  and  sweeter  harmony,  possessing  also  a  plan  of  com- 
binations  in  some  respects  different,  and  affording  opportu.ii. 
Ues  for   clear,  though  distant   allusions,   and   derivation* 
which  point  back  to  a  refiaed  source  in  a  classic  and  pol.. 

19»  * 


^ 


218 


TUB  SPRINCiH. 


ishcd  !.«c.  Then  turning  to  (ireck  :  how  mnny  useful  and 
cEnMvords  do  we  count,  which  stand  forward  rn  the  pano- 
p  V  of  Homer's  heroes,  and  with  voices  that  remmd  us  by 
t  m  °  of  the  winged  and  the  honeyed  ae.  t- nts  ol  anc.enl  t.mes 
a"  well  us  of  the  bru/.en-throated  trumpets  wh.eh  sounded 
bofore  Ilium.     How  do  these  noble  languages,  like  two  ler- 

S  onr  native  tongue!     Think  of  the  ime,  sonorous 
"^       ations  which  f.x  their  gol.len  a.ui  dia.nond  t.ps  on  the 
„    lest  stanzas  of  our  great  heroic  poets,  iud  engra^e  them 
ly  o.t  our  hearts.     Ken.embcr  the  abundant  supply    I 
e  .xes  with  which  we  can  grasp  every  verb  m  the    an- 
uage;  and,  as  if  with  the  hand  on  the  plough,  or  a  gen  le 
S'of  the  courser's  rein,  or  the  richer  than  s.  ken  lie 
whi.lt  draws  the  .carrier  pigeon  home,  we  can  guide  them 
where  wc  will : — 

«'  On  earth,  in  air,  and  under  ground." 


CHAPTER  XXVIH. 

Thoughts  on  Foreign  Travcl-Dr  Sweet,  the  natural  Bone-setter- 
•^  Retiring  Travellers. 

How  rapid  is  the  mind,  and  how  rapid  indeed  is  the 
tonauc,  although  it  has  passed  into  a  common  remark,  that 
he  latter  can  never  pretend  to  race  wUh  the  former.     I  ar 
0    a  pleasant  morning  spent  in  conversation  with  a  friend 
who  has  just  lauded  from  an  European  tour,  has  taken  me 
n  fancy  over  so  much  ground,  revived  the  memory  of  so 
many  past  scenes,  and  enriched  me  with  so  many  new  ideas. 
Tat  it  seems  as  if  time  had  been  quadrupled  m  duration. 
Surely  travel  is  an  enriching,  an  ennobling,  an  exalting,  as 
well  as  a  delightful  employment,  when  properly  used;  and 
my  friend,  I  am  convinced,  haa  been  successful  above  most 


s 

h 

V 

e 
ti 

is 

V( 

in 
a( 
th 
ar 
on 
of 


IINOS. 

Ireck  :  how  mnny  useful  and 
icli  staml  forv.mi  in  Uie  pano- 
ih  voices  thai  remind  us  by 
leyed  im  t-nls  of  anfienl  times, 
atcd  trumpets  wliich  sounded 
noble  hm^uajres,  like  two  fer- 
^le   pure   and  lofty  fotmtain, 
Think  of  the  fnie,  sonorous 
jlden  and  diamond  tips  on  the 
croii;  poets,  md  engrave  them 
ember  the  abundant  supply  of 
grasp  t'very  verb  in  the  lan- 
and  on  tin;  plougli,  or  a  gentle 
or  the  riehcr  than  silken  tie 
on  home,  we  can  guide  them 


and  under  ground," 


5R  XXVIII. 

)r.  Sweet,  the  natural  Bone-setter — 
r  Travellers. 

,  and  how  rapid  indeed  is  the 
ised  into  a  common  remark,  that 
i  to  race  with  the  former.     Part 
nt  in  conversation  with  a  friend 
m  European  tour,  has  taken  me 
)und,  revived  the  memory  of  so 
ched  me  with  so  many  new  ideas, 
lad  been  quadrupled  in  duration, 
ing,  an  ennobling,  an  exalting,  as 
yrment,  when  properly  used ;  and 
,  has  beeu  successful  above  most 


PIETV  AND  FOREIGN  TRAVEI,.  219 

him  i;;.i;:r;"f '"^  ;'T  ■''"'  "'^  °f  '"^  opportunities.     I  .„w 

/'arc  to  :i  heitf..    ..1 ,       I  P  '  passage,  a  thorough- 

cnne      u     :';;;;  "!^ J'!''  ;:'^*"^>—  -•-''  ."ay  L 

^:":s;'s::-j::;  -"  ^--^ ' -.^■;  t 

her  views  and  reflecl ,    amonl  .h  ^"  ^""""''^'"'^  '^"^ 

we  should  fin  I    r  ?  '^^  monuments  of  antiquity, 

we  snould  find  that  mere  antiquarian  knowledge  has  not 
equal  power  to  render  interestintr  the  dust  of  nl«? 
fotis,  or  to  enlighten  the  gloom  o'f  itay       ^  ''''  ^"''"''•'• 
Among  the  numerous  visiters  to  Italy  who  sneak  n„r 

that  they  may  become  more  useful  to  the  world     1} 

of  the  past  leading  to  contemplation,  and  such^  Cof 


220 


THE  SPRINGS. 


ignorant  and  trifling  minds  devoted  .0  the  pre-n^^-^in. 
tercsling  do  such  individuals  appear.  Wluiever  ^n'-'J  »8  ♦ 
Their  iun.es.  or  the  n.ofves  ^'^ 'he.  journe  hey  h  e 
alikfl   in   most   important  respects.      1  hey  regaru         » 

ih..v  discriminaie  bHween  the  right  and  tht  w'W'g  »» 
te  en  ov  nn  s  whi.h  are  offered  to  them,  and  der.ve  real 

sevc  but  draw  lesions  from  former  generations  to  exalt 
or  t«  purify  their  own  thoughts  and  actions  to-day.  A  young 
nS  in  Italy,  who  thus  pursues  the  great  objects  of  l«3 
U  r  .  n  c  u  uer  obstacles  and  discouragements,  and  o 
'to        difficulties  wh.eh  require  ^^^^'^^r^^St 

removed.    Whoever  .Urm.  Ihe  ChnsUan  »  f"''"'^™' 
L  °elf-.uspWo»,  .e..J.  .0  exhibit  n,or.  ««■■"'?, "".^^^^'^J^ 

^^'J^olll  r^icy  .h..efore  b/»in  •»  Oi.p|«y  *- 

a^„««  hv  a  surface  of  superior  brightHcss,  and  under  suciv 
iTmLcJr  real  rel.giSn  assumes  a  peculiar  ..obleness 

oles  "  sa"d  my  friend,  "  a  new  tone  of  manrvers  and  conve  " 
En.  I  -i  received  among  persons  '^'^customed  to  eU- 
ouetie  with  the  greatest  frankness  and  famd.anty ;  and  had 
Tver  -led  l  strongly  the  force  of  a  favount.  expres- 
sion of  the  New  Testament:  'Where  the  spirit  of  God  is, 
here  s  liberty.'  I  found  access  not  merely  to  thetr  lodg- 
iSga  and  their'acquaintance,  but  to  their  hearts.     And  ih. 


a: 
a{ 
m 
hi 

Pl 
di 

H'l 

pa 
an 
m( 
dif 


•RINGS. 

evoled  to  the  present,  how  in- 
appear.     Wluiever  their  age, 
es  of  their  journey,  they  are 
spects.     They  regard  things 
iro,  not  as  they  pretend  to  be  ; 
^  right  and  the  wrong  use  ol 
ered  to  them,  and  der«ve  real 
•led  by  the  crowd,  whde  they 
asonablc  expectations  founded 
.ihers.    They  do  not  of  course 
f  times  that  are  past,  because 
)f  most  consequence  to  them- 
m  former  generations  to  exalt 
,U  and  actions  to-day.    A  young 
pursues  the  great  objects  of  his 
les  and  discouragements,  and  to 
.  require  great  decision,  resolu- 
rapidly  ripen  his  heart  and  his 
id  more  experienced,  while  sur- 
Italy  presents,   feel  that  there 
less  and  care  over  their  feelings, 
18  are  greatly  increased;  while 
ian  society  are  at  the  same  tune 
B  the  Christian's  fear,  or  awakena 
■xhibit  more  clearly  his  Christian 
removes  the  tarnish  from  such 
is  formed,  polishes  pure  gold. 
f  therefore  begin  to  display  them- 
erior  brightness,  and  under  such 
n  assumes  a  peculiar  nobleness 
ind  demeanour. 

ele  of  religious  travellers  at  IN  a. 
new  tone  of  manners  and  conver- 
nong  persons  accustomed  to  eti- 
ankness  and  familiarity;  and  had 
y  the  force  of  a  favourite  expres- 
»nt :  '  Where  the  spirit  of  God  is, 
d  access  not  merely  to  their  lodg- 
^ce,  but  to  their  hearts.     And  lh« 


riKTY  AND  FOREIGN  THAVEl.  221 

/ormalities  of  fashionable  intercourse,  with  all  the  fhlsehood 
of  M  I  .,lwu.ss,  l,...nR  d.scar.le,i.  it  was  delighiful  ,o  ohs.-rve 

^.  Lr*;  .r ;;  r"'"""  i"  •*"""''-'«'■. -hlle  ,i,e  heart 
•ouMil  full  exiTcise  („r  us  allections.  Loss  swave.l  tlv.n 
other  travc.ll..r.s  in  matters  of  taste,  hv  c  r,  „t  I.,'        l" 

<.p.-n.ofHeenesandol,jects  in  nature  a^dt;!:;'^^^ 
^■^I'.v    "...re  just,   iKTaus,.  mn.   ,n.!..,,..n.lent ;  while  the ir 

v'vul.  In  relation  to  men,  hIho,  li.ev  had  gen.  rally  some- 
th.n^  n,:w  and  valuable  to  co.nnmni.v.,,. :  lor  luv  L  Zn^ 
'•"'■""""  '  reeled  after  what  has  n.erir.  or  to  .1  ";  t 

->ns  on  whont  .hey  mi.lu  .-onfer  benefits,  .1.  y     ere  oSe 
oun.I  ,.,  have  ol.,s..rve.l  ..l.araefers  .hi.l    ...her      .si; 

p s  th  ,r r '"" ; ";"^""' "'■" """'•■  ^^'" "•"--»'" -^^^^ 

e      r.    rt=       nf^  ^^"""  '"  ^  ••""'>•  ^■■'"•'  ""''  "■'""'  «'"'l' 

m        U    r      '"'"'  r,!r^y'^  ^-J--t  them  and  to  ex- 
tiaim, —  Wu  huy  the  truth.'" 

What  a  contrast,  what  a  delightful  contrast  it  seems  after 

polto  oi  losihpo  shake  his  l.o.v  of  eopper.s  at  you,  to  elose 

'0  day  with  a  .-irde  of  Christian  friol/ds,  wh..     U  -Vr    of 

Uu,  purest  love  con.u,n,.s  all  memory  of  dillLre  c^i,    srct 

and^eountry,  among  those  who  possess  one  faith  aid  one 

ThedilTeren.  ways  in  which  persons  of  oxalted  character 
.  re  afTectecl  hy  fore,fr„  travel  are  oft.-n  various,  hut  almos 
alw  ys  nnporlant.  ()„.,  receives  an  impression,  from  the 
majesty  of  so.m,  rum.  of  ,he  transitory  nalure  of  I  fe  ;  while 
.s  companion  ,s  reproved  by  it  for  the  li.tio  he  has  ac'oit 
I  hshe, .     Sonie  have  made  the  people,  whom  they  have  seen 

graded  to  the  dust,  the  subjects  of  their  daily  prayers 
AWule  others  have  been  filled  wi.h  the  idea  thft  Amerca 
possesses  inealcnlable  advantages  for  establishing  a  name 
and  a  praise  in  the  earth.  One  will  ever  after  retird  i^ 
more  important  light  all  the  means  by  which  inteKence  is 
J'ffused,  and  fix  much  of  hi,  attention  for  the  rem  JnSer  of 


I 

I 


% 
t 


a—  THB  SPRINO*. 

his  life  on  the  mind,  and  heart,  of  the  young,  «"J  »»>«  ^Jj; 
the  example.,  and  school,  by  which  they  arc  lo  be  cilu 
caJ  w  le  to  another  will  afterward  .eem  ever  pre.ent 
hte  powerful  n.otive.  to  action,  which  are  -J';;  X;^  . 
contemplation  of  heathen  magmlicencc  an.ong  '  '""«;  ^ 
ing  splendour  with  which  a  degenerate  luHle  endeavour,  to 

'' Nmlung  i.  pleasanter  than  to  meet  with  a  pcr.on  of  true 
pieVy  who  ha.  returned  from  a  foreign  tour,  with  Huch  .m- 
Son  a.  we  mu«t  expect  them  to  bring  hon.e.  when  the. 
Lcumstance«  have  been  favourable  "---'"f.^^/^.J.^ 

norance  of  foreign  languages  and  '"''l^'  '*' ^.Z'  f,;,  ,'^;,t 
ling.or  infirm  hcahh.may  prevent  then.;  b.l.fc,(—^ 

ha';  been  favourable,  you  ,nay  nee  a  gratifying  ch  nge 
them,  and  every  thing  they  can  control  around.     One  .ucli 
nerron  w  11  .pL  the  conver.alion  of  a  whole  neighbour- 
Too  UnJ    <•-«'-"  •""'  '»"■  '"'"'^  oiUMsmohcUe, 
channel..     Hi.  library  i.  placed  on  a  new  foo  u.g,  he  re- 
v^^w    and  improves  some  of  his  old  opinions,  he  looks  upon 
things  about  him  with  new  eye.,  for  even  trivial  a  la.r.  r 
mind  him  of  great  duties  heretofore  underrated.      1  lie  trav- 
Ser,  p"haps,  who  passe,  the  residence  of  .uch  a  m.n, 
eve     years^fter  hii   death,  admires  some   m.uiuuo      o 
puSc  benefit  which  owes  it.  origin  to  his   piety  and  Ins 

'°  Manrpev-ns  have  probably  seen  in  the  newspaper,  ad- 
verlisements  of  "  Dr.  Swect,-Nalural  Hone-scltcr.       1    s 
Tt  everybody  who  has  met  him,  or  any  ..f  hi.  remarkable 
Jamily      Hoi  many  there  are  of  the  name,  or  how  many 
Tre  have  been  famed  for  peculiar  skill  in  anatomy,  I  have 
not  be  i  able  to  ascertain,  because  there  is  uncertainty  am 
some Xcrepaney  among  the  family  traditions.    One  account 
I  hTve  leard,  says,  that  the  ancestor  of  the  American  Sweets 
la    a      lebVated    u.geon  to  the  king,  regularly  bred  to  the 
Jrofession  in  England',  but  disaffected  on  some  ae^urU^n 
I V  oluntary  exile  to  the  colonies,  who  chose  one  o  the  ..la«d« 
in  Providence  Kiver,  in  Rhode-I.land,  for  ^^'^.''bode.     There, 
devoting  himself  to  the  education  of  hi.  ^h.^ren.  he  taugh 
them  the  principles  of  his  own  science,  which  they  after- 


d 
J; 

a 

a 


irRINOS. 

rti  of  tlie  young,  ami  the  books, 
by  which  ihey  arc  lo  be  cdu- 
II  aflerwanl  weein  ever  prescnl 
(•lion,  which  are  exriied  by  the 
agiiiliocnce  among  the  iinniean- 
tlegenerale  taste  endeavours  to 

n  to  meet  with  a  person  of  truo 
•ni  a  f»>reign  lour,  with  Hueh  irn- 
;  them  to  bring  home,  when  their 
^ourable  for  receiving  tliem.  Ig- 
;es  and  habits,  loo  rapid  travel- 
event  them;  h\d  if  circumstances 
may  see  a  gratifying  change  m 

can  control  iiround.  One  sucli 
'ersalion  of  a  wiiolc  neighbour- 
the  minds  of  hundreds  into  better 
phiced  on  a  new  fooling,  he  re- 
of  his  old  opinions,  he  looks  upon 

eyes,  for  even  trivial  atlairs  re- 
eretofore  underrated.  The  trav- 
3  the  residence  of  such  a  man, 
ih,  admires  some  insiiluiion  for 
I  its  origin  to  his   piety  and  his 

,bably  seen  in  the  newspapers  ad- 
pet,— Natural  Honc-srlter."     It  is 
ct  him,  or  any  of  his  remarkable 
J  are  of  the  name,  or  how  many 
:  peculiar  skill  in  anatomy,  I  have 
I,  because  there  is  uncertainly  and 
ihe  family  traditions.    One  account 
,c  ancestor  of  ihe  American  Sweets 
I  to  the  king,  regularly  bred  to  the 
It  disaffected  on  some  account,  and 
lonies,  who  chose  one  of  the  islands 
hode-Island,  for  his  abode.     There, 
ducation  of  his  children,  he  taught 
^is  own  science,  which  they  after- 


A  NATI7IAL  BONB-«ETTXR.  933 

war(l«  made  a  study  l)y  means  of  his  library.     From  this 
beginning,  the  family  arc  said  to  have  had  a  stronif  propen- 
"ity  to  anatomy;  and  for  sev.ral  pencralions,  if  we  mJBht 
rretiit  report,  individuals  of  bo,|,  s.-xes  have  often  amused 
IhemsHvc.  ,„  ehiMhood  with  .lislocating  the  joints  of  kittens 
and  .-hickens,  an.l  setting  them  again;  and  more  humanely, 
in  mature  hie,  while  engage.l  i„  tbe  labours  of  the  field  or 
workshop,  by  redu.-inir  ,lispla.-ed  bones  to  their  sockets  for 
nil  es  around,  an.l  for  ..riees  so  low  that  the  mere  mention 
01  them  has  olteii  excited  the  patient's  lauKliler.     The  pro- 
ducl.on  o(  this  latt.r  symptom  is  perhaps  the  most  extra- 
ordinary  fact  relating  to  their  practice,  and  gives  them  a 
double  claim  to  their  surname. 

'i'lie  individual  of  this  family  whom  I  met  with  this  sea- 
«on,  was  of  a  different  branch,  Ld  had  only  the  f  low  ,,; 
account  to  g.ve  of  bi.s  history.    "  The  SwcCs.  I  believe^S 

Its  a  natural  gil>,  for  wise  purposes  bestowed,  and  should 
be  employed  with  a  i.rnper  sense  of  .lei„.n.lance.  My  father 
was  a  physie.an,  and  the  first  surgical  operation  I  ever  at- 
tempted  was  at  fourteen  years  of  age,  when  I  re.luced  a 
dislocated  thumb  for  a  patient  who  applied  for  aid  during 
the  absence  o(  my  lather.  After  this  I  felt  somewhat  bold 
and  made  a  number  of  successful  experiments,  siudyinj 
such  scenl.tie  book,  as  I  could  obtain.  I  believe  the  skil! 
1  liave  IS  in  a  great  nicasuro  a  natural  gift,  and  that  I  am 
accoimta  le  for  the  use  of  it.  I  have  set'a  good  my  poo^ 
people's  bones  for  nothing ;  but  I  calculate  fo  make  tlie  ridi 
pay  lor  it,  though  not  very  exorbitantly." 

"Well,  doctor,"  said  a  man  who  recognised  him,  "how 
do  you  find  ihem  at  the  South  ?  You've  been  to  the  South 
lately,  haven't  you  ?"  " 

"  Why,  yes,  I  was  down  into  the  State  of  New-.Jer3ev 
and  Z  ^'''''"''  -^"'"'^  =— '^y'  --^  ?-''  "'»ny  lame  hips,' 

Yo'rk ?""'  '"''  ^°"  ^"'  '"'""^  '^''  '''"'"'"  ''""''"  '"  ^e^^- 

"  Yes,  1  find,  wherever  I  go  the  second  time,  that  they  ect 

ne^y  bones  out  about  as  fast  as  I  put  'em  in,  so  as  to  keep 


224 


THB  SPRINGS. 


me  to  work.   But  I  like  it  well  enough  as  long  as  the  floors 
don't  break  down.     When  I  was  at  Danbury,  m  Connecti- 
cut, they'd  got  wind  of  my  coming,  and  collected  all  the 
suflerers  they  could   find  in  the  neighbourhood  mto  one 
room.     It  was  up  stairs,  over  a  hatter's  shop;  about  hfty 
men  were  assembled  there  together,  lull  halt  of  them,  as 
was   said,  being  patients,  and  the  rest  spectators.     Ihc 
doctors  had  come  to  see  me  work ;  for  they  didn't  beheve  I 
could  do  any  thing  or  knew  any  thing.     Well,  as  there  was 
a  good  deal  of  work  to  be  done,  and  no  tnne  to  spare,  1  ad- 
vanced to  a  man  in  the  corner  that  had  h.s  shoulder  out 
and  had  been  pronounced  in.-urable.     1  took  hold  on  i   and 
set  it,  and  told  him  to  put  on  his  hat,  which  he  did ;  and  this 
elated  him  so  much  that  he  began  to  whirl  h.s  arm  round 
for  joy,  and  to  show  how  well  he  felt,  riglit  before  the  doctors 
and  all,  when  I  began  to  feel  the  floor  sway  avvay  under 
me,  and  down  we  all  went  into  a  heap,  maimed  ones  and 
all     I  slid  and  fell,  as  we  reckoned  afterward,  about  twenty- 
seven  foot,  and  got  up  among  the  rest  in  '-he  hatter  s  shop. 
What  was  wonderful  about  it  was,  that  though  the  floor  set- 
tied  down  principally  at  one  corner,  while  the  opposite  one 
didn't  give  way,  it  held  together,  and  so  kept  us  out  of  the 
hatter's  kettles,  which  were  full  of  hot  water ;  and  though  a 
large  square  cast-iron  stove  fell  down  among  us,  it  didn  t 
hurt  anybody.     There  were  only  three  or  four  bones  put 
out  by  the  accident;  and  when  I  had  set  these  and  the  old 
ones,  hips,  shoulders,  elbows,  and  all,  I  had  to  set  ofl  for 
another  town,  where  I  had  an  engagement  to  do  more  work 
of  the  like  nature.    They  had  a  proper  laugh  at  the  doctors 
at  Danbury,  telling  them  they  had  set  the  trap  to  kill  me ; 
but  I  told  them  that  if  they  had  known  the  danger,  they 
would  not  have  put  their  own  lieads  into  it." 

There  is  a  class  of  single  gentlemen  found  among  the 
great  swarms  of  travellers  which  every  year  pass  over  our 
country,  who  seem  to  be  ever  in  search  of  solitude  and 
tranauiUity,  as  much  as  others  are  for  crowds  and  tumults; 
and  who,  although  they  are  often  borne  along  by  the  cur- 
rent,  actually  enjoy  many  hours  of  loneliness.  Ihey  arc 
generally  individuals  who  have  had  more  than  common  ex- 


IPRINOS. 

ill  enough  as  long  as  the  floors 

was  at  Dapbury,  in  Connecti- 

coming,  and  collected  all  the 

I  the  Dftiglibourhood  into  one 
er  a  hatter's  shop;  about  fifty 
together,  lull  half  of  them,  as 
md  the   rest  spectators.     The 

work ;  for  they  didn't  believe  I 
any  thing.  Well,  as  there  was 
ane,  and  no  time  to  spare,  I  ad- 
orner  that  had  his  shoulder  out, 
icurable.     1  took  hold  on  it  and 

his  hat,  which  he  did ;  and  this 
le  began  to  whirl  his  arm  round 

II  he  felt,  riglit  before  the  doctors 
feel  the  floor  sway  away  under 
;  into  a  heap,  maimed  ones  and 
3ckoned  afterward,  about  twenty- 
ng  the  rest  in  the  hatter's  shop. 

it  was,  tliat  though  the  floor  set- 
le  corner,  while  the  opposite  one 
[cther,  and  so  kept  us  out  of  the 
''.  full  of  hot  water ;  and  though  a 
e  fell  down  among  us,  it  didn't 
re  only  three  or  four  bones  put 
when  I  had  set  these  and  tlie  old 
ws,  and  all,  I  had  to  set  ofl"  for 

an  engagement  to  do  more  work 
had  a  proper  laugh  at  the  doctors 
they  had  set  the  trap  to  kill  me  ; 
;hey  had  known  the  danger,  they 
)wn  lieads  into  it." 
igle  gentlemen  found  among  the 
s  which  every  year  pass  over  our 
3  ever  in  search  of  solitude  and 
thers  are  for  crowds  and  tuniults ; 
,re  often  borne  along  by  the  cur- 
y  hours  of  loneliness.  They  arc 
I  have  had  more  than  common  ex- 


MODESt  TRAVELIERS. 


825 


r-emnce  m  the  world,  and  yet  through  the  influence  of  good 
edueauon  or  good  early  examples,  have  a  taste  that  sLks 
sometlwng  superior  to  its  follies.    Their  previous  life  has  ren- 

Po::'  tm  t"f"'"'  r'r  ^""""^  tlfelr  tempi;  a^d  dis- 
posed them  to  shun  rather  than  condemn  the  society  thev 

tir rrr  /  ^"^''V"'  '"^'-^  ''  '^^  solitude  whK 
tires  to  us  chamber,  and  when  it  has  shut  the  door   re- 

a^wil  I,  n  ""'r''"  '  '"'*'y  '•""  "'"«"g  »he  shady  rocks 
and  wilds  or  meditatmg  ,„  the  fields  at  eventide. 

and  friendly.    He  and  his  anglers  were  drawn  from  persons 

men  to.  t'r,  .  ''  "''  f"^'*"^  '^^^  «^^^'-"  '«  '^e^njoy- 
ment  of  sohtude,  or  rather  the  society  of  nature  •  and  the 

fishnj-rod  is  only  an  apology  for  stay^ig  from  home  by  h 

day  or  the  week.     We  are  to  blame  for  renderinir  field- 

sports  in  some  measure  necessary  to  many  pereZof  n- 

elhg.n,ce  taste   and  leisure.     We  ought  mi  to  reproach 

them  for  being  found  in  solitary  scenes,  even  though  ly 

MtoTuUhV:;?  ^""  "  iishnig-tackle.     As  it  is  not  iZ 
lui  to  kill  the  inferior  animals  for  sport,  but  as  it  is  perfectly 
proper  and  indeed  useful  to  frequent  our  wild  scenes  a  J 
to  enjoy  the  beauties  of  nature  we  ought  to  firS  the 
fairest  and  finest  with  things  necessary  to"  comfor  "nd  con 
ve  nence.  and  rather  approve  than  despise  those  who  sdect 
hem  for  reading  or  meditation.    To  no  unknown  inLidua 
m  Italy  do  I  feel  more  obliged,  than  to  him  who  construct^ 
a  rustic  seat  on  the  tall  rocks  opposite  the  fallH  Sni 
thatclied  It  with  boughs  and  cushioned  it  witJi  lives     .Td 
no  example  should  I  sooner  recommend  to  the  friend  of'  .hit 
class  of  travellers  of  which  I  am  speaking.     Their  choice 
of  the  retreats  of  the  forest  and  shore,  L  I  rem  rked    s 
owing  to  their  love  for  the  spots  where  the  fish  and  .he 
birds  resort,  and  not  to  the  love  of  slaughter,  although  the 

These  tasteful  travellers  maybe  distinguished  from  the 
common  herd  by  an  experienced  eye.     They  kee  ,?  as  i^ 

20 


2t6 


THE  9PHINOS. 


were,  along  the  green  margin  of  the  road,  xvh.le  they  pur- 
Tue  18  general  course;  tl.ey  wander  a  hule  up  the  cool 
TaUey  u^nd  streams  that  open  to  the  nght  and  left,  and  the 
Ihade  of  the  trees  and  the  dashing  of  water  are  for  them. 
W^le  ot£s,  perhaps,  of  their  own  party,  a-  compi™^^^ 
of  coarse  food  and  hard  couches,  their  appetites  .ire  sharp- 
enedTy  exercise,  or  they  are  enjoyu,g  relreshmg  slun.bers 

"  l^r:  S;  in  a  house  when  the  family  returned  from 
their  annual  tour;  and  from  their  conversation  found,  that 
wh  e  r,>me  of  the  individuals  brought  back  only  records  of 
wasted  tTme,  and  the  observations  of  the  most  common 
minr-xs  barren  as  the  beaten  roads  they  had  passed  over 
Shers  h^d  cLe  home  with  a  store  of  -oll^et.-^^^^^^^^^ 
miffht  serve,  lii^e  a  hortus  siccus,  or  a  well-hUed  sketch- 
Took  ?or  the  gratification  of  themselves  and  the.r  fnends 
for  a  year  to  come,  and  the  value  of  which  might  last  for  a 

" t maTorust  brought  up  unfit  for  the  worK'  we  live 
in  thaTa  great  part  of  society,  in  their  pursuit  of  happmess, 
"e^m  to  sfer^lUfe  either  in  Peeking  for  the  know^^e  Oiey 
ought  to  have  imbibed  in  youth,  or  amid  the  fnvolit.es  or 
°he  vices  which  are  its  only  substitutes.     This  appears  to 
he  r  general  picture  of  society  among  us.     We  do  not 
strongly  realize  the  fact  unless  we  travel ;  and  then  we  find 
our  own  mindsand  those  of  our  companions  betraying  at  every 
step  some  strong  evidence  of  deficiency.    I  sat  in  an  elegant 
SoTcar  with  a  large  company  of  travellers,  several  of 
w     mtere  ::^^^^^    to  me.     Why  were  we  silent  after  a 
Tew  mnarks  on  indifferent  topics  ?    Because  we  were  igno- 
^nt      When  we  had  seated  ourselves  at  the  dinner-table, 
Cever,  there  was  no  lack  of  conversation  or  of  cheerful- 
ness    ad  I  presume  the  chief  part  of  .he  pleasure  enjoyed 
Tyh.  party  Lt  day  was  during  the  time  devoted  to  eating 
Th  .  e  we  were  ai  home.    Ah  !  how  much  of  the  enjoyment 

of  h..me  then,  wi,h  the  mass  of  P^^P'^'.^^/^.^e  «?'us 
conn,..-ied  wl,h  a  source  not  more  exalted?  Some  of  us 
Ld  been  curious  to  know  some  simple  facts  concernmg  d.f- 
feret.t  objects  around,  but  either  presumed  on  the  ignorance 


tl 


RINGS. 

of  the  road,  while  they  pur- 
'  wander  a  little  up  the  cool 
I  to  the  right  and  left,  and  the 
shing  of  water  are  for  them, 
r  own  party,  are  complaining 
hes,  their  appetites  are  sharp- 
!  enjoying  refreshing  slumbers 

when  the  family  returned  from 
their  conversation  found,  that 
1  brought  back  only  records  of 
vations  of  the  most  common 
en  roads  they  had  passed  over, 
a  store  of  recollections,  which 
siccus,  or  a  well-filled  sketch- 
f  themselves  and  their  friends 
value  of  which  might  last  for  a 

It  up  unfit  for  the  work'  we  live 
ly,  in  their  pursuit  of  happiness, 
seeking  for  the  knowledge  they 
yroutli,  or  amid  the  frivolities  or 
r  substitutes.     This  appears  to 
ociety  among  us.     We  do  not 
ess  we  travel ;  and  then  we  find 
ur  companions  betraying  at  every 
f  deficiency.    I  sat  in  an  elegant 
ompany  of  travellers,  several  of 
e.     Why  were  we  silent  after  a 
topics  ?    Because  we  were  igno- 
ed  ourselves  at  the  dinner-table, 
V  of  conversation  or  of  chcerful- 
hief  part  of  the  pleasure  enjoyed 
Juring  the  time  devoted  to  eating. 
Ah  !  how  much  of  the  enjoyment 
iss  of  people,  are  we  to  (ear,  is 
not  more  exalted  \     Some  of  us 
some  simple  facts  concerning  dif- 
eilher  presumed  on  the  ignorance 


PAGAN  EDUCATION.  227 

Of  our  companions,  or  feared  to  expose  our  own  by  makin* 
them  subjects  of  conversation.  a„-i  •         ,     y '"**'"g 

as  trulvtravplllr         !    u    '  '*"^'»^''J°gge(l  on  in  silence, 
as  truly  travellers  as  the  horses  which  drew  us  alons  and 
'Joing   what   only  fashion   saves   from   ridicule     tJ^tL 
coursmg  over  the  country  without  definite  obje    /and  with.* 
out  the  least  chance  of  intellectual  improvement.    On  reach- 

Sdir    "v7  T^T''''  !''"^  ^  ""-''  •^''•"'"*"«J  to  avoid 
.)Kld.ng  dny  of  them  farewell:  but  I  found  they  had  anpa- 

ounce  .It  travelhng  as  any  of  tiiem. 

des?ed  to'knortht"^'''  '"  "^  '-•''"'"""'^'  "'"»'  ^  ««  """^h 
uesireu  10  know,  the  names,  nature,  and  uses  of  the  trees 

nL!  ff  produced  them,  or  a  little  of  the  princi- 

vl^n  Sr"?  ^°  ,""''-«'«"'•  tf.e  construction,  and'exc  . 
du^r  o  .  i'"''™"'^'  "■■  ^"""  "•'■"••"'«d  "f  tl'e  history,  pro, 
manner  as  to  feel  an  mterest  in  them ;  or  had  anv  of  mv 

on  7at  rr?  "  'r^'"''  ^^'''^  "•'^'--1«  (oZlrZ 
of  Pi  asire  'nor  h"  "T  ''''  '""'"'^^  "''  P^'"  '^'^^^  '^an 
Idem S"  '"^  '"""^  «^^  -"-  "^  -  •»-"  Belf- 


CHAPTER  XXIX. 

^  in  £plle"e?!sou?r ''r  ?  "  ^''"«"""  I-nd-Improvement. 
Proper  E8tima^„rfP  '"'f'PV't"  Hal.iis  ir.  ourCountry- 
cal  R080U  «siiveii!:„  '^"/'■'''i'T""'  »'^"  Moral  and  PhL. 

painful  mamerof  ?h.  r    *  '       "'"  '"'"«  '""'"'W  '»  « 
I-     lui  manner  of  the  pwvemons  praclued  in  my  own  mIu- 


229 


THE  SPBtNOS. 


cation.    Truly  I  was  led  by  a  thorny,  a  crooked,  and  a  da«^ 
gerous  way!     Why  I  did  not  tiHrn  back,  p...d  run  out  of  tha. 
mud  road,  I  can  hardly  tell.     I  remember  I  was  strongly 
tempted,  when  I  found  some  of  my  favourite  companions  de- 
serting  it  one   after  another,  and  saw  the   grassy  walks 
of  agriculture,  and  the  sparkling  paths  of  ''»«"'«''«/°™J- 
times  offering  strong  attractions,     h  .s  high  t.me  that  we 
should  realize  that  certain  sorts  of  knowledge  may  pervert 
the  heart  while  they  fill  the  head.     Look  at  «''«^«Y;/«;;;- 
«mple,  and  remember,  that  not  we,  but  some  of  Ke  worst 
men  of  heathen  times  are  in  fact,  at  ih.s  moment,  teaching 
our  children  their  own  views  of  past  events,  '"  our  ow" 
schools  and  under  our  own  eyes.    Do  we  not  put  the  classi- 
cal writers  in  the  place  of  schoolmasters  and  P'^^^n*^'  »"^ 
make  the  young  admire  what  they  commend       And  whose 
views  do  the  ancient  writers  maintain?     All  of  them  the 
Tiews  of  heathenism;  and  not  a  few  of  them  are  mere 
echoes  of  the  selfish  or  profligate  rulers  ;vlm  patromsec 
them  to  secure  their  praise,  and  dictated  what  they  should 
withhold,  what  record,  and  what  pervert.     0»g'>t  nor^uc 
pernicious  influences  at  least  to  be  ,'^"""t.*'"'^»f  J.  ^^f' 
not  the  teacher  who  enlarges  on  Uie  beauties  of  \irgil  an.l 
Giesar,  Ovid  and  Horace,  to  condemn  the  principles  and 
motives  they  so  often    applaiul.  and  --^^  f'yj;;;';^";^ 
ideas  which  the  pupil  must  otherwise  imbibe  T     Some  uew 
or  other  is  to  be  taken  of  history  by  every  one  who  reads. 
There  is  a  right  and  there  is  a  wrong  view,  and  they  are 
totally  inconsistent  with  each  other.     The  splendours  of 
Greek  and  Roman  heroes  long  absorbed  my  mind ;  and  for 
years  I  had  no  tasts  for  the  view  of  history  given  by  the 
Scriptures.     The  superintending  power  of  the  Creator  was 
not  present  to  my  mind  when,  I  read  of  Juno  and  Jupiter 
,he  Fates  and  Fortune.     It  has  cost  me  long  and  violent 
struggles  to  divest  mvsclf  of  the  taste,  as  well  as  of  some 
of  the  views,  which  I  imbibed  from  my  education  at  a  gram- 
mar-school and  college.  ,      ,    •     , 

But  now,  how  sublime  as  well  as  how  lovely  is  the  aspect 
which  history  presents !  Miserable,  undefined  Fortuiie  has 
^ei»  banished,  and  pains  my  heart  i»o  longer  with  the  gloomy 


PBINOS. 

thorny,  a  crooked,  and  a  dajw 
,  twrn  back,  and  run  out  of  that 
I  remember  I  was  strongly 
»f  my  favourite  companions  de- 
•,  and  saw  the   grassy  walks 
iling  paths  of  business  some- 
ions,     h  is  high  time  that  we 
)rts  of  knowledge  may  pervert 
lead.     Look  at  history,  for  ex- 
not  we,  but  some  of  the  worst 
1  fact,  at  this  moment,  leaclung 
ws  of  past  events,  in  our  own 
eyes.    Do  we  not  put  the  classi- 
;choolma8ters  and  parents,  and 
It  they  commend  ?     And  whose 
s  maintain  1     All  of  them  the 

not  a  few  of  them  are  mere 
rofligate  rulers  who  patronised 
,  and  dictated  what  they  should 

what  pervert.     Ought  not  such 
ist  to  be  counteracted  ?     Ought 
;s  OB  tlie  beauties  of  Virgil  and 
to  condemn  the  principles  and 
)laud,  and  correct  the  erroneous 
,  otherwise  imbibe  T     Some  view 
iiistory  by  every  one  who  reads. 
le  is  A  wrong  view,  and  they  are 
ach  other.     The  splendours  of 
long  absorbed  my  mind ;  and  for 
the  view  of  history  given  by  the 
ending  power  of  the  Creator  was 
lien,  I  read  of  Juno  and  Jupiter, 
[t  has  cost  me  long  and  violent 

of  the  taste,  as  well  as  of  some 
3ed  from  my  education  at  a  gram- 
is  well  as  how  lovely  is  the  aspect 
Miserable,  undefined  Fortune  has 
ly  heart  no  longer  with  the  gloomy 


TEMPER  ANTE. 


S80 


whose  inif-n^sts  -ir,.  •..  ;  d.-simics  of  „  an, 

and  „o„r:rr, ;:!;:::;-;'''•>■ -'--p-ta^es; 

blood.  j„s.  a,„i  ,i..i„h  1 2Zs ; '^"""■"•:  .'•""<■•'  i» 

wiihoul  TvmmUMr  •,   „.,,',,',        "    ''"'•'••••".  "t  least 
r,,,  '   "»»  '"  <<>Mtr()l|iiiir  ourselves. 

in "'!  n::rji;;:;.':r r, '''■'■'',''" "» ""«"" 

oi  me  war  left  the  country  m  an  immoral  coa- 
20* 


'(30' 


THE  srr.iscs. 


iliiion      Tl.e  .lisbaiulii.;,'  <.f  tl>c  army  converted  our  villages 
.     .  ;t  uuo  ranrp.  so  f;.v  as  the  l.a!.it«  of  men  ^v..re  con- 
::l::;:5;ln.l  J  vicious  practiee«.>f«ol.lierseo-c,^^^^^^^^ 
^vill,  tl.e  desultory  employment  ol  le.su!.  time  wluelu.  n.Uu 
:;„y  produced  l.y  a  long  period  of  war  and  P"l  ";-;-'      ; 
stamped  a  low  character  upon  so.-icty  through  a  great  pa  t 
Seountry.    Publi.-  calamities  had  puned  lat;     jn  a  thou- 
sand instances,  to  private  fortunes;  and  many  ol  those  ptr- 
bI s     1  o  mi.iu  <.lherwise  have  possessed  the  means  ol  oh- 
a^  ,g  u.  educatbn,  were  cut  olVlVonr  it  by  poverty,  or  by  th 
p^mi^ed  .leprcciation  of  learning  in  the  pubhc  estnnat.on. 
Spivder.  Layonets,  soldiers,  and  n.ilitary  skd   wc..     b- 
icets  of  praise  and  admiration;  and  as  taste  and  h calurc 
iould  not  purchase  these,  they  were  but  hghily  esteenu=d^ 
O  course,  peace  found  the  country  aboundn.g  nr  many  young 
Tu  d  empt^  heads,  and,  what  was  worse,  wuh  morals  corru 
beyond^eir  years.     li  was  the  tendency  of  such  a  s  ate  of 
Sgs  to  honour  the  tavern  and  to  break  up  the  famdy  e   - 
.     .^and  in  many  a  town  and  village  the  lornrer  was   he 
t  t  resort  of  fathers  and  sons,  while  the  mothers  were  too 
f,fien  left  to  solitary  regret  and  tears  among  the  broken 
?   gm  n  s  of  the  latter.     Who  does  not  remember  some- 
dnrof  such  a  state  of  society?     Who,  at  least,  has  no 
nerccived  traces  of  it    in  the  Bacehanahan   stor.cs,  and 
Urc  tales  of  village  wit,  whose  narration  to  a  later  generat.on 
haVofrerved'to  depict  the  tavern  in  colours  and  asso- 
dations  too  attractive  to  the  clnldrcn  of  a  reformed  or  so- 
bered  father?     To  the  discredit  of  a  state  of  society  now 
Swearing  on,  of  fashion,  a  large  part  of  our  trad.l.onary 
natralives  and  humour,  and  sketches  of  local  biography,  arc 
Tingled  with  the  oaths  and  intoxication  of  the  mn,  or  the 
Ire    dangerous    language  and    examples   of  fasluonable 
dinner-parties  and  drinking  bouts  m  c.ty  life. 

I  know  a  large  town,  now  distmguished  for  its  orderly  as 
well  as  intelligeiU  and  refined  society,  in  wiuc.ii,  forty  years 
n^o,  or  even  less,  social  evening  parties  among  parents  oJ 
both  sexes,  were  unknown ;  and  where  a  father  of  a  Himily, 
who  set  the  example  of  assisting  to  entertain  the  female 
vLiters  of  his  wife,  had  to  bear  the  brunt  of  all  the  tavern- 


I 


ic  anny  coiivciled  our  villages 
thu  liiiliits  of  men  were  con. 
licps  of  siiltliers  co-opeiaim;; 
t  of  Ifisu!  u  limf,  wliifli  is  ""'iln- 
k1  oI'  war  and  public  calaniilics, 
in  society  tliioii(fli  a  great  part 
ilies  liad  proved  latal,  ni  a  tliou- 
innes  ;  and  many  of  those  per- 
ave  i»nssessed  tlie  means  of  ob- 
t  ofl'from  it  by  poverty,  or  by  tlic 
^rnin|T  in  tlie  public  estimation, 
■rs,  and  military  skdl  were  ob- 
on ;  and  as  taste  and  literature 
liey  were  but  lightly  esteemed. 
)untry  abounding  in  many  young 
was  worse,  with  morals  corrupt 
1  the  tendency  of  such  a  slate  of 
and  to  break  up  the  family  cir- 
and  village  llie  former  was  tiic 
ons,  wiiile  tlie  mothers  were  too 
L  and  tears  among  the  broken 
tVho  does  not  remember  somc- 
ociety?     Who,  at  least,  has  not 
tl\e 'Bacchanalian   stories,  and 
•se  narration  to  a  later  generation 
the  tavern  in  colours  and  asso- 
le  eliildrcn  of  a  reformed  or  so- 
srcdit  of  a  state  of  society  now 
,  a  large  part  of  our  traditionary 
1  sketches  of  local  biography,  are 
id  intoxication  of  tlie  inn,  or  the 
e  and    exampli^s   of  fashionable 
r  bouts  in  city  life. 
\\y  distinguished  for  its  orderly  as 
ned  society,  in  wiiicii,  forty  years 
ivening  parties  among  parents  of 
I ;  and  where  a  father  of  a  family, 
assisting  to  entertain  the  female 
(  bear  the  brunt  of  all  the  tavern- 


~^ 


n.KASlnfisoFCAXAX,  TliAVfT.MV,,.  231 

liauniors  of  the  dIip..   •!,.,.  ;       <•    u    , 

L-i  .nil  lu  K I  r ' ;  z  T^°"'  '""""""•■  s»-i>  » 

'-;.o.,,.,j,;;:^,r£i::st/^'i,i:;;i;;- 

*' But  mv  io   I  «i     .        P™"°"'»'ed   this   exclamation— 

judge  of  them  ?-  And  ulio  is  not  l?^; I'^^^^T'  "'  ^''  '« 
'"  roreu,^"  polisli,  in  his  Z^^^^t'^^^'^'^'t^r 
degenerate,  luxurious  iiabits '  Thn  hr^r  ,  ,  r°^'^^' 
full  of  travellers   vet  T  nl  ^n  i     !  f'  ^  ^"'*'  ^''^^  "'^s 

fw.ostparto  Te'dav   .ndl  r    "'''"'i''  "'^  'y^'  '«  «''« 
Th,  luv,;  .         .  • '         ^y  ^""^^  '"  'he  purest  air. 


232 


CANAL  EXCURSION. 


nun.pral.le  columns  of  somn  extensive  temple   wno  f.u  h- 

X  rdKH-,e.l  lu.low,  wlule  their  thirk  .•an..s,y  of  I"!-.-  al  o 

'    ,;,Hr.Hl   repeuUHl   appar.^.tly  fron.  an   .nm.en^e  .le,.tl«.  «0 

was  ll.e  .Mirror  over  wl.irh  .Ley  Imn^.     Why.  1  asked 

..  f  is  travUin.'  o,.  .mr  .'a.MU  n,„si.lere»l  so  wear.s...ne 

L  .        l.f  i.aere.t  r     ,„re  are  nohle  prod..e,.o,..  o 

...re   mul.i,,lie.l   ar«..n,l,  silenee   a..d  .ol,t...le  .....  ...u.^he 

.V  the  rattli..,  of  wl.e.ls,  a,..l  perl,..ned  a.r  --'"';-' 
risi..ir  (iiust.      ()..r  ea.ials  ofien   .i,..-..<l...-e  ys  to  the  hearts 
d  the  trests;  .he  re.r.-ats  of  wihl  ani.nals  an-  al.n...    ex- 
no     1  t    o..r    i..v,  un.l  .he  nes.«  even  of  rare  b.r.is  hang 
Sv      oir  l.ea.ls.    Ilow  ea..  the  p..hli.-,  how  ean  some  ot  .ny 
S     .Is    most  .listinsnishe.!    lor    ..sle    prel.-r   the   n.,w.  ed 
siaire  .oaeh,  the  .U.s.v  and  thiekly  ...haln  ed  roa.l,   v.lh  the 
h       of  th..  sun  d..ri.„  a  n.idday  ride  1    Alas  !  a  l.ttle  re  lec- 
tio., re.ninded  me  that  our  edueat....,  .loes  ..ot  prepare  .s  fo 

he  e..iov...ent  of  scenes  like  those   through  wh.H.  1  was 
nassmr-  Who  k..ows  .he  nature  an.l  uses  o.  th.s  '"..e  tree  ; 
who  can  tell  the  varieties  of  this  ;  how  few,  .ndeed,  are  there 
Im.mg  .ne..  of  education  who  can   d.scr.m.nate   heiwee. 
rr   plants  of  marked   and  even  opposite  peeul.ar.t.es ! 
Wi  I     he  exception  of  those   practical  men  whose  h..s.- 
ne      introduces  them  to  such  things,  few  have  take,    the 
p'nso  inquire  at  ail  into  the  important  s.udy  oi  botany; 
Si  i  as      r  zoology,  ornithology.  &e.,  stil    less  are  they 
k  tvt.  tho...h  d.e  lorests  and  fields  are  stocked  w.th  var.ous 
Sa,.d  quadrupeds.     The  fnvolit.es  of  life  devour  te.t 
J      s   lalunt  of  hours  which  would  he  suffic.ent  ,o  g.ve 
yl  g  such  k..owledge  of  these  and  other  subjects  as 
wou^d  re..der  them  capable  of  deriving  enjoyment  and  benefit 
n-om  travelling.     What  more  natural  and  easy,  than  to   ead 
She    i    o  d.e  garden  or  the  field  every  day,  tea.-h  them 
t  bse  vT  eaveslnd  flowers,  fruits  and  seeds,  an.n.als  and 
t         md  relate  or  read  to  the.n  sketches  of  the.r  nature  and 
his  «;;       B    .  no '.     The  father  is  too  fond  of  his  money- 
na  .n^  his  wine,  or  his  politics;  and  the  .nother  of  her 
Set  i;  p  rties.  or  novel-rla.ling.     A.ul  unfortu.jately  such 
habits  'a'c  by  no  meatts  confined  to  the  more  frivolous  ol 
society. 


s 
f 
ii 
k 
t\ 
a. 

Ol 

P" 

tr 

th 

nil 

hu 

tin 

wl 

La 

nci 

lik 

lag 

tioi 

she 

has 

strt 

can 

tiini 

resf 

thei 

ther 

earl 

whi( 

it  to 

beco 

iiseli 

ignoi 

versE 


XCURSION. 

extensive  temple,  WPie  fiiith- 
■ir  tliii'k  laiiojiy  of  \'o\\i\«v  also 
,  Iroin  an   iniineiifse  deplli,  so 
•h  ilicy  l.tiiig.     Why.  I  asked 
m.iU  coiisideretl  so  wearisome 
lire  are  noble  proiiuftinnis  of 
ciice   anil  soliliule  undisiinlied 
I  perlnmcd  air  iiinninitle<l  with 
•n   introduce  ns  to  tlie  liearts 
r  wild  animals  are  almost  ex- 
lests  even  of  rare  birds  bang 
f  piililie,  how  ean  some  of  my 
lor    tasle,   prefer   the   erowded 
hickly  inhaliited  road,  with  the 
liay  ride  T    Alas  !  a  little  rellec- 
lueation  does  not  prepare  us  for 
ke  tliose   through  which  1  was 
ature  and  uses  of  this  "ine  tree  ; 
this  ;  how  few,  indeed,  are  there 
vho  ean   discriminate   betweeii 
id  even  opposite  peculiarities! 
se   practical  men  whose  busi- 
ich  things,  few  have  taken  the 
the  important  study  of  botany; 
ologv,  &c.,  still   less  are  they 
id  nelds  are  stoi^ked  with  various 
he  frivolities  of  life  devour  ten 
,vhich  would  be  sufficient  io  give 

of  these  and  other  subjects  as 
of  derivini.'  enjoyment  and  benefit 
re  naturafand  easy,  than  to  lead 

the  field  every  day,  teach  them 
;rs,  fruits  and  seeds,  animals  and 
them  sketches  of  their  nature  and 
father  is  too  fond  of  his  money- 
politics  ;  and  the  mother  of  her 
eading.  And  unfortunately  suoh 
confined  to  the  more  frivolous  of 


DUTIES  or  TRAVELLERS. 


388 


How  e,-«y  would  it  be  for  parents  to  teach  their  cliiidrei, 
«s  one  o(  my  (ellow-travellers  taught  me.     Seating  Jumself 
hy  my  side,  he  remarked  on  the  peculiarities  of  the  various 
spec.es  of  trees  we  passed  on  our  way,  touching  upon  their 
«ize,  soils,  uses,  ages,  modes  of  propagation,  an.l  capacity 
for  improvement,  the  value  whi.-h  some  of  then,  would  hear 
m  other  countries,  the  superiority  of  some  of  the  species 
nown  .,.  ddferent  climates,  &e.  &..;  ...nil  my  minSTva: 
'Hied  «  II,  admiration  at  .he  vast  and  iiitensting  variety  pre- 
rented  by  ,he  subject,  and  with  respect  for  one  whose  mem- 
ory  was  stored  with  such  valuable  facts,  aud  who  was  dis- 
posed to  communicate  them. 

t  J'  rj  '"  T  'Y"  ''f. ""'  "*■ "'"  "y'"'^  ^'■"•'  «<■  »•''«  '^«"n- 

th^ir  d  ,i^  .  T  '"'f'^'"'  ""'"  ^'''■"^^  '»  acknowledge 
the.  ,lut.es  to  the  public.  Whether  at  home  or  abroad 
most  of  them  seem  to  think  there  is  no  virtue  in  the  woid 
hut  mo.Iesty ;  and  under  her  broad  mantle,  I  fear  they  son  . 
nes  hide  the.r  indolence,  private  ,.iste.  personal  van^y,  a  d 
Hhat  not  Aow,  to  say  nothing  of  the  modes  in  wl.ich 
L  wyer  Loveall.  ])r.  Dogood,  Judge  (ienerous,  Mr.  Goot 
n  .fhbour.  Farmer  Friendly,  and  other  chara  ters  ofThe 
Ike  nature,  some,  if  not  all  of  whom  we  (ind  in  every  "t 
age  an    town,  might  contribute  to  the  gratification.  Src- 

Ibir.  .'!'■"'""'"'  "'^  '^''"  «"'»  "'•«'"  at  home,  why 
should  they  be  so  insensible  of  the  claims  which  s^de  y 
has  upon  ihem  when  they  go  abroad  ?  Put  them  as 
strangers  ,„io  a  steamboat's  cabin,  or  a  stage-eoadt  a 
canal  packet,  or  a  railroad-car,  and  they  are  aHSem  and 
t"n.d  as  mice.  They  do  not  feel  the  superior  power  and 
respectability  of  virtue  or  knowledge,  nor'realizeTat  it  l, 
heir  business  to  appear  as  their  advocates,  by  exhib kin. 
them  m  the.r  own  proper  nature.     They  do  nit  se  ze  af 

Which  shall  betray  the.r  own  characters,  but  generally  leave 
to  others  to  give  a  tone  to  conversation  which  son  etimL 

becomes  annoying  to  them,  while  it  is  useless  or  worse  Zl 
.sdess  to  the  company.  I  have  often  seen  the  youn^or  the 
e  sat'n  l'f2f  "  7"'  comparatively  so.  coL  the  co„! 

^ersation  of  those  whose  respectable  appearance  promised 


984 


CANAL  BOAT. 


Bomcihing  superior  to  themselves  in  mind  or  in  Jieari ;  and 
have  observed  with  pain  that  the  piivilr^e  has  been  too 
often  denied.  1  have  seen  men  of  »hwlnu;tion,  iieeidenlaUy 
discovered  by  fellow-travellers,  and  tu'aled  with  respect  and 
deference,  yei  disposed  either  to  be  personally  Haltered,  or 
to  aflect  cold  indifference— too  seldom,  at  least,  showing  a 
philanthropic  desire  to  make  every  advantage  subservient  to 
the  benefit  of  others.  In  short,  1  am  persuaded  that  one 
great  reason  why  there  is  so  much  that  is  frivolous  among 
travelling  parlies,  and  why  there  is  any  tiling  oileiisiye, 
is,  that  those  whose  duty  it  is  to  prevent  it  arc  too  indil- 
fereiit  about  their  obligations,  or  neglect  to  seek  proper  op- 
portunities and  means. 

Many  persons  meet  on  their  travels  who  have  little  leisure 
or  opportunity  elsewhere  to  devote  to  the  society  of  strangers ; 
and  to  some  of  these  such  interviews  have  proved  highly 
gratifying  and  permanently  beneficial.  Hut  many  a  ride  or 
excursion  has  been  rendered  irksome  by  a  general  silence 
among  fellow-travellers,  or  the  want  of  ihat  refinement  of 
manners  and  conversation  which  ought  to  have  existed.  I 
know  tiiat  there  are  subjects,  very  excellent  in  lliemselves, 
which  would  be  inappropriate  for  topics  in  a  mixed  com- 
pany ;  and  that  those  most  forward  are  often  the  most  con- 
ceited and  bhallow-minded  of  their  party.  But  I  am  favour- 
ing a  just  medium.  1  can,  perhaps,  show  something  of  my 
meaning  by  a  real  case. 

Cards  were  once  called  for  on  board  of  a  boat,  where 
none  objecting,  a  parly  or  two  sal  down  at  whist,  who  filled 
the  cabin  with  their  voices  for  a  couple  of  hours.  For  want 
of  a  timely  word  of  disapprobation  from  a  few  of  us  present, 
wiiich  would  have  sufficed,  we  were  condemned  to  listen  a 
long  time  to  such  things  as  the  following ;  and  were  after- 
ward annoyed  by  the  effects  of  the  liquor,  to  which  the 
game  conducted  some  of  the  players. 
"  I've  won  two  bands  of  Mr.  Jones." 
"  Ah !  so  you  have." 

"  That'll  answer.     That's  one  over— I've  a  mind  to  lei 
that  fellow  be.     We  want  four  to  begin  with--six  round." 
"  Now,  look,  hold  on  your  hair !" 


bi 


I,  nOAT. 

elvos  in  mind  or  in  heart ;  and 

lat  tlie  piivil'-^e  hsis  heen  too 

nen  of  disliiiction,  aecidpnlaUy 

s,  and  tifaled  with  respect  and 

If  to  be  personally  flattered,  or 

too  Heldoni,  at  least,  showing  a 

every  advantage  subservient  to 

lort,  1  am  persuaded  that  one 

1  much  that  is  frivolous  among 

there   is  any  tliini;  ollensive, 

is  to  prevent  it  arc  too  indif- 

«,  or  neglect  to  seek  proper  op- 

nr  travels  who  have  little  leisure 
evote  to  the  society  of  strangers ; 
interviews  have  proved  highly 
beneficial.  Hut  many  a  ride  or 
id  irksome  by  a  general  silence 
the  want  of  that  refinement  of 
/Inch  ought  to  have  existed.  I 
is,  very  excellent  in  themselves, 
ite  for  topics  in  a  mixed  corn- 
forward  are  often  the  most  con- 
jf  their  party.  But  I  am  favour- 
perhaps,  show  something  of  my 

for  on  board  of  a  boat,  where 
wo  sat  down  at  whist,  who  fdled 
()r  a  couple  of  hours.  For  want 
obation  from  a  few  of  us  present, 
we  were  condemned  to  listen  a 
the  following;  and  were  after- 
!ct8  of  the  liquor,  to  which  the 
le  players. 
Mr.  Jones." 

t's  one  over — I've  a  mind  to  let 
four  to  begin  with — six  round." 
ur  hair !" 


CARD  PAHTY. 


235 


"Ah!  I  think  I'll  stand  that,  sir." 

"After  this  hand—" 

"  Bless  my  stars  !" 

*'  Cut  'em." 

"What  do  you  say!" 

"  Cut  'em !" 

"  That's  over." 

"  Now  I  want  a  ten." 

"  Mr.  Jones,  advise  'em." 

;;Ten.  there'H  twenty,  dub,  dub,  dub;  hold  on  to  that !" 

a,  J.'  r?T\  '**>'  y""'   ''"nJ«    'here— plairuv  luck 

as  ever  anybody  had  !"  I"»8"y  iuck 

"  You  a  notion  of  turning  in,  captain  ?" 
"  VVhat  say  ?"  °     '      »- 

"  Notion  of  turnin'  in  ?" 
"  No,  not  yet." 

;;  VVcIl,  I. hi„k  I  shall  have  to  pretty  soon." 

Twemv-     fon'V      ^^.'r*''^'"   '"   ^''^   '^''^^f^^^Y  here! 
^^  wenty  .-four,  ten  and  four  is  fourteen,  and  six  is  twenty, 

"  Play  up  all  round  !" 

"  How's  that  ?" 

"  O,  if  I  could  have  got  ten  then  I" 

"  We're  entitled  to  the  deal '" 

"  Ten !  ha,  ha  !" 

;;Cut  'em  again-go  ahead-split  'em-that's  right." 
Wow,  :f  I  can  get  an  ace— fourteen."  * 

<»ive  us  one  apiece." 

"  (iive  me  a  couple  apiece." 

ban'k"""   '"'-'''''   '''   ^-~P'«y  "P~that  helps   the 
;;  njope  luek  won't  go  against  me  all  the  time." 
Who  s  got  a  good  hand  ?     Them  that  ha'n't,  say  so  " 
I^'!,hteen,  nmeteen,  play  twenty."  '     ^  ""• 

I  old  on-hoM  on-what  have  you  got  now »" 
"O'lve  me  a  fish."  gomow. 


^  i' 


_.- 


SM 


WIIITKIIALl.. 


"Stop.  Stop,  Stop!" 

•'  Tliiit'a  hKht,  Hir,  a  small  one. 

"  Hero  -lis  V'«">  -»'"»•-'''"  '  ^'""  '"  ''"'^  • 

•'(Jivn  UH  ii  tish." 

"  My  next  di-al." 

"  There's  your  two  finli." 

"  I  commence  to  deal  there." 

•'  'rum  'em  right  over." 

»  We  are  three,  sir." 

"  Take  'em  — ihal'a  vif^hl." 

"Yes." 

"  What  do  you  want  1" 

"  One." 

"  l<et  her  lay- -0  take  one  of  them  from  the  pack." 

"  That'll  be  too  much." 
» I'll  bet  he  don't  -^et  it." 
"  I'll  bet  he  don't  loo." 
♦'  Well,  I'll  bet  he  duz." 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

Whitchnll-Story  of  Serircant  Tom,  a  Crcaluro  of  t^J  Rcvolution- 
Liiko  Ucoriie— Charminc  Srciu'ry,  and  intrreslinK  Higtoriral  Ass  • 
cialions— 'riconJero«a— A  Revolutionary  1  radiDon— An  Uracit  oi 
Philology— Crown  Point. 

Whitehall,  formerly  Skeenesborough,  which  is  in  this 
vicinity,  is  associated  in  my  mind  willi  the  career  of  a  wild, 
hair-brained  fellow,  who  joined  the  American  army  at  the 
breaking  out  of  the  Revolution,  by  the  persuasion  of  an  act- 
ive otlicer,  from  whom  I  once  received  a  sketch  of  his  nnli- 
tary  course.  A  sergeancy  was  obtained  for  Tom,  but  he  had 
not  been  long  in  the  exercise  of  it,  when  his  friend  the 
colonel,  arriving  at  the  eamp  at  Skeenesborough,  where  lu 


rr.iiALL. 


I  one." 

I I  want  10  find ;  hold  still — 


re. 


ne  of  them  from  the  pack." 


'TER  XXX. 

Tom,  ii  Crcaluro  of  the  Revolution— 
•cm'ry,  ,\n(l  intrreslingHigtorical  As8i>- 
levolutioiuiry  Triidilion— An  Oracle  ol 


^keenesborough,  which  is  in  this 
ly  mind  willi  tlie  career  of  a  wild, 
joined  the  American  army  at  the 
lition,  by  the  persuasion  of  an  aci- 
mce  received  a  skcicli  of  his  niih- 
was  obtained  for  Tom,  but  he  had 
ercise  of  it,  when  his  friend  the 
,mp  at  Skeeuebborough,  where  in 


nROtANT  T0». 


Wf 


ill":  ?""''  ^[^  ^'P^iM  to  a  private  .entry.    By  his  cxc 
cau  loncd  him  aKauut  getting  into   any  quarrel  with  th« 

Thfn  :  «  ^^  «PP^-'"'"''«'J-  Hut  this  wa«  nil  in  vain, 
rhenex  afternoon  new.  came  tha.  Tom  was  in  the  ^Zl 
ouse.  »„  inqu.ry.  he  learned  (hat  he  had  flowed  the  .ol- 
d  rn  „„,,  cleared  them  out  of  the  tent,  and  tCt^,ed  .o 
kdl  the  major  Tom  had  sent  for  the  colonel  to  see  him 
but  th.s  he  refused,  though  he  felt  bound,  out  of  relrd^o 
his  fannly.  to  exert  himself  in  his  behalf.  ^ 

ArnoM  T''^''"'  T,l^'"  '^"'"'^  °"'  ''"  »he  lake,  under 
Arnold  to  oppose  the  Hritish ;  and  with  great  exertions  the 

Ihol      I    .'?""?  """"•'"'*"''''•«"  condition  that  he 

Sud^to  bf*^  r  f  P™P°«"'°"'  "pressing  the  warmest 
gru  itule  to  his  friend,  to  whom  he  attributed  his  escape: 
and  solemnly  swore  to  serve  him  whenever  he  eonld.  ve,^ 
to  tif  f.^''  '/'V  ^''^""8^  '^'  «^°'«"«'  believed  him 
n  this  oTelt'?'''  f  '"'""P'^'  ^^  P"''"''  '"•P"'^"  -'-"  ™ 
of  gratituie  "^  P'"™'""'  '»  ^'  ^^'  «"»eeptible 

intL^lfuKr''''"^''"'"'/^'''''  as  sergeant  of  marines, 
^.llh!     ,  «ff  Crown  Point,  fought  the  English  flag-vessel 

the  ol      '  Z"^  ^['''  ''8°"^-     '^"'"'  «'  ''"g'h  finding  a 
the  officers  above  h.m  wounded,  fought  her  himself,  miti 
h.s  galley  was  found  to  be  in  a  sinking  condition.     One  of 
our  commanders  came  up,  received  him  on  board"  gave  him 
a    onspicuous  part  the  rest  of  the  day.  and  honou  ed  h  S 
w.  I  peculiar  marks  of  approbation.     Tom.  however  was 

S  ?.  ";  "^^  ^'^P^'^"'""  wa«  proposed  to  surprise 
Ballston  then  a  frontier  town,  and  Tom  wL  offered  a  large 
reward  to  join  it.  This  he  refused,  alleging  that  it  wa  he 
residence  of  his  lather;  but  partly,  no  doubt,  because  hi^ 
benefactor  also  lived  there.  Finding,  however,  that  the 
expedition  would  proceed,  he  joined  ft,  that  he  mig  e! 
fnend  h.m;  and  performed  important  service  in  secret,  to 

•1 


■I! 


m ' 


238 


LAKE  OEOROI. 


which  my  informant  conBidered  himself  indebted  for  liberty, 
if  not  for  life.  The  details  are  interesting :  but  I  cannot 
stay  to  write  them  now. 

The  first  glimpse  I  caught  of  Lake  George  satisfied  me 
that  my  expectations  would  be  almost  equalled ;  for  I  had 
heard  it  described  in  such  glowing  terms  in  my  boyhood, 
that  the  conception  I  entertained  of  its  beauties  were  un- 
doubtedly romantic  and  extravagant,  as  I  had  before  had 
occasion  to  reflect.     If  the  breadth  of  a  lake  be  too  great, 
or  its  shores  too  low,  there  must  bo  a  want  of  bold  features 
on  the  margin.     A  large  level  surface  is  sublime ;  but  we 
soon  feel  a  want  of  variety.     A  more  limited  plain  is  often 
beautiful ;  but  it  is  necessarily  insipid  if  alone  ;  and  a  sheet 
of  water  particularly  requires  contrasts  to  relieve  the  satiety 
which  the  mind  feels  in  contemplating  it.     The  Lake  of 
Geneva  would  be  greatly  improved  in  beauty,  if  a  few  of 
the  eminences  which  stand  at  the  distance  of  several  miles 
could  be  planted  upon  its  very  banks. 

Lake  George  lies  in  contact  with  the  mountains,  whose 
bases  are  washed  by  its  pure  waters,  while  its  summits 
hasten  to  their  terminations  just  above.     I  had  inspected 
some  manuscript  military  maps  of  the  French  war  in  this 
vicinity,  so  that  I  soon  caught  some  of  the  zigzags  of  Mont- 
calm's lines  of  approach  to  Fort  William  Henry  (which, 
alas !  is  now  an  insignificant  heap  on  the  shore),  and  fixed 
on  the  thick  grove  on  my  left,  which  shades  the  grave  of 
about  one  thousand  of  his  men.    On  the  right,  swelling  from 
the  head  of  the  lake,  was  the  elevation  crowned  by  Fort 
George,  long  in  ruins,  and  in  1745  the  scene  of  General 
Dieskau's  defeat,  before  a  breastwork  of  logs.     Along  the 
waste  ground  in  the  little  valley  this  side,  was  perpetrated 
the  massacre  of  the  soldiers,  women,  and  children  from 
Fort  William  Henry,  by  Indians.     The  sky  suddenly  grew 
dark  as  I  approached  the  pretty  village  of  Caldwell,  and  a 
thunder-shower  lassed  just  before  us,  obscuring  for  a  few 
minutes  the  fields  and  dwellings ;  and  then  passing  slowly 
down  the  lake,  whither  it  bore  ofl"  a  brilliant  rainbow  on  its 
bosom.     The  beauty  of  the  scene,  from  my  window,  in  the 
rear  of  the  hotel,  I  would  fain  describe,  especially  as  it  ap- 


lelf  indebted  for  liberty, 
tteresting :  but  I  cannot 

ike  George  satisfied  me 
ost  equalled ;  for  I  had 

terms  in  nny  boyhood, 
f  its  beauties  were  un- 
t,  as  I  had  before  had 
1  of  a  lake  be  too  great, 
!  a  want  of  bold  features 
ace  is  sublime  ;  but  we 
are  limited  plain  is  often 
M  if  alone  ;  and  a  sheet 
asts  to  relieve  the  satiety 
lating  it.     The  Lake  of 
d  in  beauty,  if  a  few  of 
listance  of  several  miles 
ks. 

th  the  mountains,  whose 
Iters,  while  its  summits 

above.     I  had  inspected 
r  the  French  war  in  this 
e  of  the  zigzags  of  Mont- 
;  William  Henry  (which, 
on  the  shore),  and  fixed 
lich  shades  the  grave  of 
In  the  right,  swelling  from 
levation  crowned  by  Fort 
r45  the  scene  of  General 
work  of  logs.     Along  the 
this  side,  was  perpetrated 
omen,  and  children  from 
The  sky  suddenly  grew 
rillage  of  Caldwell,  and  a 
e  us,  obscuring  for  a  few 

and  then  passing  slowly 
'  a  brilliant  rainbow  on  its 
-!,  from  my  window,  in  the 
iscribe,  especially  as  it  ap- 


If 


1' 


ii 


m  - 


r 


"^ 


A    PHILOLOaiST. 


289 


peared  near  aunset,  when  the  broad  and  green  slope  to 
the  margin  of  the  clear  water  was  striped  with  the  long 
•hadows  of  trees  and  mountains,  and  the  surface  of  the  lake 
was  calm,  and  the  opposite  ridge  of  French  Mountain  raised 
its  immense  curtain  of  foliage,  as  it  were,  perpendicularly 
to  the  clouds. 

In  this  place  a  very  different  excitement  seems  to  affect 
the  visiters  from  that  which  is  felt  at  the  Springs,  where 
there  is  no  scenery  to  draw  off  the  thoughts  from  ourselves 
and  each  other.  The  conversation  at  table  seemed  im- 
proved, and  the  various  parties  had  a  variety  of  objects  be- 
fore them  for  the  day :  walks,  rides,  and  boat  parties,  to  visit 
the  forts  or  to  make  an  excursion  to  Tea  Isiond.  One 
would  hardly  think  that  the  house  could  be  much  visited  in 
the  winter  season ;  but  I  found  some  of  the  family  speaking 
familiarly  of  Montreal  and  its  inhabitants,  who,  I  learned, 
often  come  down  in  parties  in  sleighs. 

I  had  several  strolls  along  the  shore  on  both  sides  of  the 
lake  near  Ticonderoga,  traced  out  the  old  French  lines  on 
which  General  Abercrombie's  army  made  so  ridiculous  an 
attack  in  1758,  and  climbed  to  the  redoubts  on  Mount  Inde- 
pendence. It  is  melancholy  to  renew  the  impressions  which 
must  have  been  made  by  the  aspect  of  these  hills  and  head- 
lands, these  woods  and  waters,  at  night,  when,  after  General 
St.  Clair  had  ordered  the  evacuation  of  the  fortress  and  the 
retreat  of  the  troops,  the  sudden  bursting  out  of  a  fire  in  a 
building  at  the  foot  of  Mount  Independence  illuminated  the 
scene,  betrayed  the  motions  of  the  Americans,  and  awakened 
the  fire  of  their  enemies. 

There  is  an  exvonsive,  wild,  and  mountainous  region  north 
and  west  from  this  spot,  where  there  are  hardly  any  inhabit- 
ants, except  the  beasts  of  the  forests.  I  heard,  in  a  log- 
house,  some  exciting  tales  told  about  deer-hunting ;  and  on 
a  warm  afternoon,  I  heard  an  old  man  talk  in  the  following 
strain,  as  he  was  sitting  in  the  sun,  surrounded  by  several 
bantering  farmers'  sons : — 

"  You  are  a  stranger,  sir,  I  presume,  and  perhaps  don't 
know  me  nor  my  family.  That's  the  way  with  the  world : 
these  boys  that  have  grown  up  don't  know  but  what  thei? 


I 

(I. 
li 


i'  f 


340 


LAKE   CHAMFLAIir. 


father,  were  as  respectable  as  m.ne.    I've  not  don*  "gj^ j 
that  rra  willing  to  allow.     But  I  an  t  so  bad  a.  B.11.     He 
got  to  drinking  too  much  a  good  many  years  ago,  and 
learned  to  fiddle,  and  used  to  leave  home  »«'"«»7«/'  ^ 
go  off  round  to  dances,  and  so  on.     But  he  had  as  good 
a  wife  as  ever  was.  and  he's  reformed,  and  so  am  1.     1  ve 
come  across  the  lake  to  help  at  harvesting,  and  get  some 
wool  and  carry  back  for  the  children  to  card  up,  and  then 
we'll  have  it  spun  and  made  into  somethmg  warm  for  em 
next  winter.     These  women-folks  ihey  are  the  masler-cnt- 
rs\rsuch  things.     They^lsit  and  card  and  ta  k  and 
aet  a  wonderful  deal  done.     But  education  is  a  great  thing, 
Ld  we  can't  get  it  over  there  among  the  mountains  where 
there  an't  nobody  five  miles  back  from  the  l»ke.     Us  a 
curious  country  there,  there's  so  many  ponds.      »^erts 
Long  Pond,  and  Square  Pond,  Goose  Pond,  and  Crane 
Lake,  and  Paradox  Pond,  and  Pyramid  I'^^e,  and-  4hat  s 
all,  I  believe.     Well,  now  there  an't  nobody  but  me  that 
lives  anywhere  about  here,  that  knows  how  these  ponds 

got  their  names."  „.,..,    i  „f  .v,o 

"Well,  do  you  know.  Uncle  Zeek?"  asked  one  of  the 

*""  »  Whv,  yes  ;  there's  Long  Pond  and  Square  Pond,  they 
were  called  so  because  of  their  shape ;  and  the  wild  geese 
go  to  Goose  Pond  ;  and  Crane  Lake,  the  surveyors  found  a 
crane's  nest  on  the  bank.  And  then  there',  something  very 
curious  about  Paradox  Pond:  the  stream  that  the  outle 
falls  into  is  sometimes  swelled  by  a  thunder-shower  that 
don't  reach  the  pond,  and  then  the  water  sets  back  through 
the  outlet  into  it.     So  you  see  I  know  all  about  the  history 

of  that  country."  .  „„„,„;„„ 

"But,"  said  L"you  have  not  informed  us  concernmg 

^^"Ohfas^o'i  that,"  said  he,  "I  don't  rightly  know  what 
that  took  its  name  from,  without  it  was  because  they  some- 
times  catch  suckers  there  very  early  m  the  season. 

" However,"  saiu  he,  "I  was  talking  about  my  family. 
You  must  know  that  my  grandfather  came  from  England 
with  Lord  Howe.     He  had  just  fioished  hw  edueauou  at 


I.    I've  not  done  right ; 
,'t  80  bad  as  Bill.    He 
1  many  years  ago,  and 
B  home  sometimes,  and 
n.     But  he  had  as  good 
ned,  and  so  am  I.     I've 
larvesting,  and  get  some 
Iren  to  card  up,  and  then 
something  warm  for  'em 
ihey  are  the  masler-crit- 
and  card  and  talk,  and 
diication  is  a  great  thing, 
)ng  the  mountains  where 
i  from  the  lake.     It's  a 
>  many  ponds.     There's 
3oose  Pond,  and  Crane 
yrramid  Lake,  and-  -that's 
an't  nobody  but  me  that 
knows  how  these  ponds 

Zeek  ?"  asked  one  of  the 

id  and  Square  Pond,  they 
ihape  ;  and  the  wild  geese 
ake,  the  surveyors  found  a 
lien  there's  something  very 
le  stream  that  the  outlet 
by  a  thunder-shower  that 
le  water  sets  back  through 
know  all  about  the  history 

jt  informed  us  concerning 

I  don't  rightly  know  what 
,  it  was  because  they  some- 
early  in  the  season." 
J  talking  about  my  family, 
father  came  frona  England 
It  fioished  hU  edueakioa  at 


It 


CROWII  POINT. 


Hi 


Oxford ;  and  there's  few  men  that  have  got  as  much  learn- 
ing now-a-days.  What  an  army  that  was !  Every  man 
was  dressed  in  superfine  broad  cloth,  with  gold  knee 
buckles.  And,  besides,  though  I  am  almost  ashamed  to 
say  it,  I  am  connected  by  marriage  with  General  Arnold's 
family.  He  was  a  good  soldier,  though,  at  Sarriloag,  and 
some  said  he  got  the  victory  there.  Why  don't  you  sing- 
the  old  songs  ollener,  boys  ? 

That  the  great  Mount  Defiance 

They  soon  would  fortify  : — 
We  found  that  we  must  quit  our  Fines, 

Or  ev'ry  man  must  die. 

Which  soon  we  did  in  hasH  perform. 

And  went  to  Sarritoa.^, 
A  burning  all  the  buili';ng8 

We  found  along  O.t  road. 

'Twas  then  the  gp  I'rous  thought  inspir'd 

The  noble  G.ues's  mind, 
For  to  send  out  Gin'ral  Arnold, 

To  see  if  he  could  find 

A  passage  through  the  inimy, 

Wherever  he  might  be  ; 
Which  soon  he  did  accomplish. 

And  set  the  country  free." 

I  made  a  passage  to  Crown  Point  one  p'.easant  afterneor* 
and  evening,  in  a  small  lake  schooner,  built  of  boarrls,  laid 
in  several  courses,  without  timber,  on  Annesley's  plan.  Its 
masts  also  were  made  so  as  to  be  easily  struck ;  and  the 
dimensions  and  fixtures  being  those  of  a  canal-boat,  it  had 
taken  a  cargo  through  the  Erie  Canal,  I  believe  to  New^ 
York,  and  was  now  on  its  lelurn  to  the  lower  part  of  Lake- 
Champlain.  The  crew,  consisting  of  only  two  men  and  a 
boy,  were  full  of  fresh  water  wit  and  anecdotes,  and  inci- 
dents by  canal,  lake,  and  river,  and  at  once  skilful  and 
obliging.  As  they  were  telling  a  long  eel  story,  the  neigh., 
bouring  eminences  on  the  left,  and  the  distant  ridges  of  the 
Green  Mountains  on  the  east,  especially  the  Camel's  Hump» 
made  a  magnificent  appearance  in  the  declining  sun,  while 
we  passed  near  enoug,h  to  the  scattered  dwellings  to  feel 


342 


LAKE  CHAMPIAIK. 


some  interest  in  the  inhabitants  of  several  retired  bat  plea- 
7^isZl     I  was  carefully  landed  in  the  jolly  boat,  under 
kC  moon  at  a  pretty  beach  on  Chimney  Point;  and 
:fterf  «""-  '  r  p'oseTt  the  inn.  examined  «ith  interest 
?he  striking  features  of  that  neighbourhood,  not  less  mteresU 
in^  rscefery  than  in  history.    On  the  elevated  point,  while 
Tfi      b  ee'e  was  blowing,  1  traced  out  an  old  breastwork 
once  extending  from  cove  to  cove,  and  a  redoubt  whch 
boked  »p"  ndlwn  the  lake  for  a  great  distance,  while  he 
nls  of  Crown  Point  lay  exposed  to  the  eye  -  the  opp     te 
„f  .hp  l«kp  here  reduced  to  the  breadth  of  a  river. 

w":'— ctg  position.  N-^'"^, -f iL;tf 

^ay  without  sailing  long  m  the  range  of  ^^e  -n  "ery  ol 
the  old  fortress,  then  passing  it  in  review  with  broaclsidt 
expo  ed  to  he  batterie's  within  musket-shot,  and  afterward 
fUcouli  survive  this  risk,  steering  for  several  more  m  the 
ange  of  one  of  the  five  great  redoubts  which  were  m  ad- 
vance  of  the  angles  of  the  main-work.     I  crossed  the  ftrrj . 
Td  rambled  ab'out  the  solitary  ruins  but  found  them  in  a 
pretty  good  state  of  preservation.    The  original  ^orUere^^^^ 
by  the  French  on  the  shore,  is  near  the  landipg.     Fhe  long, 
broad   and  low  point,  the  end  of  which  is  occupied  by  the 
Sficatls,  is^overgrown  by  young  trees,  -h-h  have 
Inronted  since  its  evacuation,  and  there  is  a  grove  of  the 
sLe  age  rtllat  at  Ticonderoga.     The  parade  wi.hin  he 
forTess  was  green,  and  almost  as  smooth  as  if  «  tU  >n  "se , 
w We  on7y  thf  want  of  roofs  and  glass  in  the  brick  buildings 
Turl^undfng  it,  and  the  growth  of  ««  ^-^^^^^^^^^^^ 
showed  that  the  place  was  deserted.     The Jjarracks  were 
occrpVed  partly  by  sheep  and  partly  by  swallows ,  and  the 
sSJ  cLemplation  of  the  scene  aroimd  wakened  many 
reflections  on  past  events. 


Fei 
i 
t 


ing 

soc 

wh 

bly 

sidi 

twc 

to 

roo 

and 

foo( 

tak( 

abo 

for( 

•'fij 

I  ac 

the 

tyra 

theii 

dise 

sere 

if  th 

kno\ 

it,  Ti 

the  j 

thes( 

M 

befoi 


TT 


^erml  retired  b  it  plea- 
i  the  jolly  boat,  under 

Chimney  Point;  and 
xamined  with  interest 
hood,  not  less  interest- 
e  elevated  point,  while 
ut  an  old  breastwork, 

and  a  redoubt  which 
•eat  distance,  while  the 
the  eye  on  tiie  opposite 
he  breadth  of  a  river, 
oihing  could  pass  this 
inge  of  the  aridlery  of 

review  with  broadside 
ket-shot,  and  afterward, 

for  several  more  in  the 
lubts,  which  were  in  ad- 
•k.  I  crossed  the  ferry, 
IS,  but  found  them  in  a 
rhe  original  fort,  erected 

thelandipg.    The  long, 
(vhich  is  occupied  by  the 
>ung  trees,  which  have 
there  is  a  grove  of  the 
The  parade  within  the 
smooth  as  if  still  in  use ; 
ass  in  the  brick  buildings 
umacs  round  the  parapet, 
ted.     The  barracks  were 
ily  by  swallows ;  and  the 
ne  around  wakened  many 


243 


CHAPTEK  XXXI. 

Feeling,  on  entering  Canada-State  of  Society-Eniiffrsnt.     «!,„„ 

Disappointment  is  the  first  feeling  of  a  traveller  on  enter- 
utg  Canada  by  th U  route.  There  is  no  scenery,  and  he 
soon  feels  as  ,f  there  were  no  inhabitants,  that  J  none  in 
whom  he  can  take  nterest.  The  country  is  flat,  and  miserl" 
bly  cultivated;  and  you  have  positive  evidence,  onTvcry 
sKle,  that  the  people  ought  to  be  sent  to  schoolan  age  o^ 
wo,  and  laughed  at  or  provoked  personally  in  some  manner 
to  induce  them  to  build  decent  houses,  keep  them  clean 
root  out  the  thistles  and  plant  eorn,  cut  down  riilUa  poles* 
and  erect  schooLhouses-and  allow  the  soil  to  produce 
food  for  man  and  beast,  for  which  it  seems  perfectly  wilC 

about  It.     It  ,s  bad  erough  for  the  Nevv-Englanders  to  be 

•'  fixing,  I  know ;  but  ,t  is  a  good  deal  worse  to  do  Jdther. 
I  ached  to  put  some  of  the  people  I  met,  old  and  young,  into 
he  hands  of  a  certain  district  school-master,  the  greatest 
tyrant  ever  knew.  It  seemed  to  me  that  ignorance'  ha  t 
their  case  assumed  the  symptoms  of  so  terfible,  so  fatal  a 
disease,  that  I  would  have  volunteered  to  put  on  his  thurnb! 

f  ther?;  "'  '!!'"  ""I'"  """"y  °'  ^'«  «'^«-«»  '"easu^es. 
If  there  were  any  hope  that  so  he  might  get  a  morsel  of 
knowledge  into  any  crevice  of  their  whole  Lins  "  Raze 
It,  raze  U  to  the  foundations,"  I  exclaimed,  at  the  sight  of 

he  great  fabric  of  public  ignorance  which  is  reared  amone 

these  active  and  amiable  people.  ^ 

Montreal  Mountain  is  in  sight  just  before  you  for  miles 

before  you  reach  the  river;  and  you  have  little  el,"  to 


244 


CANADA. 


Observe  but  BeUcUleana^uc^l^M^^^ 
right,  over  the  vast  pl'''"' f "  !  ^  ;^,^  ^^e  glo  >n.y  nunnery» 
and  comfortless  »'<>r »  °^^ J^^J^S  high  walls,  and  the 
with  spacious  g^"""'^*  ^"^^"'^Jori    on  the  shore  of  the 
vociferous,  French  speaking  V^"^' '^^ 

Tobi:  St.  Lawrence,  -™"^  ^^  .-^^  td  the  Lakes  have 
The  steamboats  on  the  St  L  -en  ^^^^  ^^ 

been  often  "f*'^^^^;,^  b  UaiUo  much  so  as  to  render 
newly.arrived  rom  ^J^^^^^"^  ..  unpleasant."  And  such 
travelling  for  pl^'^^^re  remarkably         \  .^  ^^^^^  ^^^. 

a  mixed  co."^P=»"y '^^J^se  ^S 
oesl    While  some  of  those  obl^,g  ^^^.^  ^^^^^ 

Illy  write  about  "^^  »^^;;j^^f  ^e  triuble  of  leaving  home, 
they  might  save  ^'-m    We^  jh^tro  ^^^^^^  ^^^^^  ^^^^ 

Among  the  «'"^7";»;  ' '^^l^^^^^^^^^  „f  intelligent  and  wealthy 
thisyearamuchlagerproporuon^^  ^^^^  ^^^  ^^^ 

persons  than  »«"*^» '^'^  J^'f  ^hem  to  their  population.    Biit 
Lefitofaddingnotaf^wofthem^^^^^^^^ 

some  appeared  to  bo  ^"J'^^  "^ans,  to  direct  their  course 
formation,  as  well  as  pecun  a^  ^^^  „;  hi  be  heard 

to  advamage  after  ^^^'^/iTtunuJ  through  which  he  was 
making  inciuines  •<^^«"^  f  J^f^^  7,  been  in  a  geography 
passing,  that  showed  he  had jvev  ^^^  ^^^^^^^^^„  j 

^lass  in  his  life ;  ^^^  « ."^  *"f  which  the  English  school 
versed  in  "  the  -««  of  th    globes      v       ^^  .^^^^^p.^hmcnt. 

advertisements  seem  t"  J^g^'^^  J  .^e  same  time  leave  un- 
What  will  not  'g""'^*'",^";';^  '  of  the  emigrants  might 
done '.     I  am  persuaded  tha   ma"y  ««       ^^       l^-       out.  if 

save  years  of  "-"e.  an-l  ^^J  ^^^ J^,  J,  ,,  {be  boys  in  the 
they  would  but  ask  a  f«J /^j^^^        answer,  aiwl  act  oa 
New-York  V^^'^^r'    obtined      One  Joman  you  will  hear 
the  ^--V''^g;;"i:Jb,nror*  children,  who  have  come  ta 
inquiring  for  her  husbana  n,.morrow,  one  sick. 

America;  ^"«^J" ''''°^;;  •! 'Shy V  ^""ther  amazed  at 
and  believing  the  chmate^^-^^^^^^  ^^^  fHendliness  of 

the  beauty  and  fertility  ol  tne  j  ^  ^^^^, 

the  people,  the  aburdano.  ^^ J  "f,;  %l,Luy  of  every 


lie  Mountain',  on  tho 
St.  John's.  The  old 
the  glo  )my  nunnery* 
,  high  walls,  and  the 
on  the  shore  of  the 
urope. 

cc  and  the  Lakes  have 
ason,  by  the  emigrants 
much  so  as  to  render 
inpleasant."    And  such 
observed  in  these  car- 
tourists,  who  occasion- 
ecis  before  their  eyes^ 
)uble  of  leaving  home, 
marked,  there  has  been 
f  intelligent  and  wealthy 
rn  slates  have  had  the 
to  their  population.    But 
vided  with  necessary  m- 
ins,  to  direct  their  course 
ne  person  might  be  heard 
y  through  which  he  was 
er  been  in  a  geography 
at  best  but  extremely  It 
which  the  English  school 
such  an  accomplishment. 
It  the  same  time  leave  un- 
y  of  the  emigrants  might 
money  they  bring  out,  H 
lestionsaslheboysmthe 

•eadily  answer,  and  act  on 
^ne  woman  you  will  hear 
ildren,  who  have  come  ta 
'turn  to-morrow ;  one  8ick„ 
.alihy;  another  amazed  at 
ounlry,  the  friendliness  of 
,vork,  the  high  wages,  the. 
t,  the  superiority  of  every 
,e  only  wonder  to  me  was^ 


;vSllliii!il|illiii'^^'' 


I  \ 


that 
in  w 

thiiil 
then 

I 
tlicr 
the 
aboi 
we 
whc 
acc(j 
at  ni 
con  I 
hum 
cum 
gelh 
old  I 
lecii 

A 
Que 
is  111 
ledjr 
air  a 
ancc 
sum 
of  t 
Tim 
whei 
niosi 
men 

•I' 
ferrj 
dista 
beinj 
of  t 
you 
ble, 
torn 
lect, 


>  -^HLVj'^yl'-!.'*^'^ 


MONTREAL. 


245 


that  they  were  not  all  delighted ;  for  I  have  seen  the  ships 
in  which  some  of  them  have  crossed  the  Atlantic,  and  should 
think  that  any  thing  would  be  preferred  ts  life  on  board  of 
them. 

I  asked  an  old  Scotchman  one  day,  just  arrived,  whe< 
thcr  he  had  had  a  pleasant  passage.  He  pointed  down 
the  half-closed  hatches  and  said,  "  In  that  hole  there  were 
above  ninety  of  us ;  and  yet  this  was  the  only  ventilator 
we  had  during  a  voyage  of  six  weeks,  except  three  days, 
when  the  afier-halches  for  a  short  time  were  removed.  On 
account  of  tlie  impurity  of  the  air,  i  used  to  come  on  deck 
at  night,  and  could  scarcely  persuade  myself  to  return."  I 
confess  that  liie  sight  prexented  below  sunk  my  ideas  of 
human  nature  to  a  grade  that  always  makes  me  feel  un- 
comfortable for  a  day  or  two.  The  sounds  which  rose  to- 
gether reminded  me  of  Bunyaii's  pit  of  'J'ophet,  though  the 
old  tnan  did  not  answer  my  idea  of  a  shepherd  of  the  De- 
lectable Mountains. 

A  few  days  may  be  agreeably  spent  at  Montreal  and 
Quebec,  and  in  visiling  the  environs :  for,  although  there 
is  little  to  excite  interest  in  the  literary  institutions  (know- 
ledge, in  all  its  branches,  being  at  a  low  ebb),  the  foreign 
air  of  the  people,  their  habitations  and  maimers,  the  appear- 
ance of  activity  which  pervades  every  thing  during  the  brief 
summer  which  the  climate  allows,  and  the  peculiar  features 
of  the  natural  scenery,  present  considerable  attractions. 
Time  is  not  allowed  to  enter  into  detail.  Let  us  see,  then, 
whether  any  idea  of  the  variety  and  nature  of  the  objects, 
most  striking  to  a  traveller,  may  be  conveyed  by  a  rapid 
mention  of  them. 

The  approach  to  Montreal,  in  one  of  the  Laprairie 
ferry-boats,  allows  you  to  contemplate  it  at  leisure.  The 
distance  is  nine  miles  :  the  river,  which  is  three  miles  broad, 
being  crossed  transversely.  You  are  excited  by  the  rapidity 
of  the  powerful  steamboat,  and  of  the  current,  bearing 
you  like  a  bird  over  a  ragged  channel,  which  often  is  visi- 
ble, covered  with  crags,  apparently  ready  to  tear  the  bot- 
tom of  the  vessel.  French,  of  a  harsh  and  uncouth  dia- 
lect, is  dinned  in  your  ears  by  market-men  and  women, 


t46 


CANADA. 


wHtchinir  their  ba.kels  of  roots,  herbs,  Ac,  p'^ored  i6 
Tan  V  harvest  from  some  part  of  the  rich  bul  abused  pla.n, 
which  cZl  from  the  river's  bank  to  the  hor.zm.,  except 
where  it  is  bounded  by  a  few  distant  and  ""P«""8  '"^j^^^^^ 
louni  ins      If  you  cross  in  a  buiteau.  you  hear  the  boat 
Xof "^ur  roIc^s,  in  which  there  .s  li.tle  --etness  or 
poeuy      The  city,  spreading  along  the    ow  shore  of  the 
rWer  shoots  up  th^  spires  of  five  or  six  churches,  wUh  the 
domes  of  "wo  cLventS.  and  the  towers  of  the  new  cathedra^ 
arinst  he  Mountain  of  Montreal,  which  alone  rescue,  the 
sL      from  utter  tameness.     Those  who  w.sh  to  contem- 
p  a     the  largest  specimen  of  barbarous  architecture  m  North 
America  (saving  Mexico),  may  visit  the  cathedra  1 

What  apology  is  tliere  for  the  mtroduct.on  of  the  Gothic 
,,e.nto^he^mtcd  St.es.     Wh^^^^^^^^^^^ 

andtf  suc:essf;c  race^  oLen  in  difleront  stages  of  c.v. 

tC^SZfo^le   judgment.    .  ^Vhy  thenju>u  d  we 

and  a  mu  titude  of  laboured  devices  and  ornaments  the  m md 
wouldTn  vain  understand  T  Simplicity  and  use,  two  o  the 
Teat  features  of  nature's  works,  are  banished  hence,  he 
Sgh   for  which  our  eyes  were  formed  is  obscured  ;  and   h 

objects  and  ends  of  our  creation  mystified,  as  far  as  archi 

tpctural  objects  can  produce  such  an  eflect. 

'"why  should  we  wish,  in  this  country,  ^  F«-"    '^ 

pile,  to  the  eye,  in  which  it  can  trace  none  of  the  great  prm 


pl< 
am 
H( 

sty 

tab 

an( 

tioi 

rul 

use 

of, 

tas 

the 

An 

an) 

ns  1 

thii 

pur 

for 

the 

whi 

we 

blei 

( 

tryt 

diar 

ries 

pun 

wh£ 

in  ( 

the 

agi 

stru 

thej 


rbs,  &c.,  gathered  i6 
I  rich  bul  abused  plain, 
.  to  the  horizon,  excepi 

and  imposing  isolated 
eau,  you  hear  the  boat 

is  little  sweetness  or 
r  the  low  shore  of  the 
'  nix  churches,  with  the 
srs  of  the  new  cathedral, 
which  alone  rescues  the 
3  who  wish  to  contcm- 
)us  architecture  in  North 
I  the  cathedral, 
iroduction  of  the  Gothic 
hat  is  there  among  us 
is  there  connected  with 
,nd  what  good  influence 

future  1  We  have  had 
taste  through  many  ages, 
diflerent  stages  of  eivili- 
)ry  at  all  allied  to  such  a 
tion  is  based  on  the  foun- 
ihere  is  no  mystery,  no 

is  concealed,  nothing  is 

re.     Neither  do  we  admit 

•lings  are  to  be  influenced 

Why  then   should  we 

in  which   vastness    and 
3  heart,  without  oflTering  to 
fasten  upon  ;  in  which  the 
lich  they  cannot  penetrate, 
es  and  ornaments  the  mind 
plicity  and  use,  two  of  the 
,  are  banished  hence ;  the 
rmed  is  obscured  ;  and  the 
1  mystified,  as  far  as  archi- 
ll an  effect. 

g  country,  to  present  Tast 
trace  none  of  the  great  prm- 


VALSI   NOTIONS. 


247 


eiplei  of  natural  taste ;  in  which  the  mind  finds  only  per- 
plexily ;  and  the  feelings,  instead  of  being  exalted  with  hope 
and  fn.-ouragement,  are  depressed  with  undefined  gloom. 
How  far  more  appropriate  are  the  pure  and  chaste  (ireek 
styles  to  our  own  history,  character,  and  condition  !    I  would 
take  the  Doric  and  Ionic  in  preference  to  the  Corinthian : 
and,  if  I  may  judge  from  my  own  feelings,  the  first-men- 
Uoned  IS  to  be  preferred  to  ail  others.      Regard  the  ancient 
rules  and  proportions  so  far  as  they  are  appropriate  to  the 
uses  of  our  public  edifices,  and  consistent  with  the  nature 
of  our  climate  ;  and  then  the  more  vigorously  you  culiivatc 
taste  and  multiply  specimens  in  cities,  towns,  villages,  and 
the  very  forests  where  they  may  be  needed,  the  better.     In 
America  there  is  no  apology  for  a  gradual  introduction  of 
any  species  of  perfection  which  necessity  does  not  forbid 
lis  to  know  at  once.     We  must  admit  only  the  best  of  every 
thing.     Where  the  forest  tree  falls,  there  let  taste  erect  her 
purest  monuments,  while  learning  adopts  the  best  methods 
for  instruction,  and  philanthropy  binds  heart  to  heart  with 
the  love  of  the  gospel :  for  liberty  has  established  a  system 
which  requires  the  most  powerful  support  of  us  all,  and 
we  are  answerable  to  mankind  for  an  exhibition  of  the  no- 
blest  results  of  civilization  and  Christianity. 

One  of  the  unaccountable  traits  of  the  taste  of  our  coun- 
trymen.  is  displayed  by  many  of  them  on  entering  a  Cana- 
dian  town.  They  will  take  off  their  children  to  the  nunne- 
ries,  obtain,  if  possible,  an  interview  with  the  superieures, 
purchase  a  few  trifles  of  domestic  manufacture,  infer  from' 
what  they  see  that  all  must  be  well  arranged  and  systematic 
in  every  department,  because  they  spend  a  few  minutes  in 
the  presence  of  stiff  and  starched  nuns,  and  go  away  with 
a  gratuitous  impression  that  there  is  a  great  deal  of  solid  in- 
struction given  to  the  children  and  young  persons  whom 
they  profess  to  teach. 


348 


CHAPTER  XXXI. 

linked  Sutes  •  a  Frenchman  and  a  South  American !  The 
ile  ecS  o  my  recollection  Monsieur  Levasseur  who. 
lile  in  the  train  of  General  Lafayette.  ;^itnes8ed  the  ^. 

^llhi^d  "of  the   gr=«  eaparitie.  of  republican,. 
^^'^.K  Zeln  .J  -ways  .djng  .he  W»  »f 

■=f:;c;"::rcr:rTKe"or:oSsrr 

Spdhke  an  engine.  Millions  of  her  inhabitants  are  stand- 
LI  tit  day  S  machines,  with  their  weapons  presented 
Sfe  the  fee^h  of  a  bark-mill,  or  the  cogs  «  a  -der^rmde^ 
readv  to  do  work  by  the  exertion  of  brute  force.  What  an 
mmen^e  capital  stands  from  age  to  age  -vested  m  arsnd 
and  foundries,  fortresses,  fleets,  and  powder-mills;  yet_  the 
dget  of  war  annually  groans  under  -- ^PP™?— i 
Peace  may  sit  balancing  her  pmions  over  them  ^r  a  time , 

Stb.  g:the?er;he:\?e  flowers  of  a  new  season  e.e  . 
be  plucked,  the  machinery  moves  again;  its  course  is 
against  mankind,  its  track  is  a  stream  of  human  gore.    Th 
Greeks  cried  for  freedom,  but  they  must  pass  through  Missi- 


longhi 

and  th 

the  pr 

whispi 

sion. 

felt  in 

the  Atl 

ment— 

in  a  m 

and  hu 

the  wa 

cles  an 

Indeed, 

livelier 

than  ot 

in  lone] 

the  ene 

of  liber 

Now 

eat  and 

Is  there 

gain  wc 

devotes 

of  our ( 

preciato 

benefaci 

The 

sent  to 

power  0 

peculiar 

Most  of 

views  ai 

of  them 

here  to  ( 

a  severe 

was  disj 

whose  p 

landers 

on  vario 


^r»nlgji!Wt|wHHpri»i  P^W|*'gtm«?>» 


THE  BANISHED  POLES. 


24» 


SXXI. 

—The  Polish  Exile*— Regret* 
n  Slowstarter't"  Farewell. 

e  other  day,  with  the  con- 
lom  I  met  travelling  in  the 
I  a  South  American !    The 
Monsieur  Levasaeur,  who, 
ifayette,  witnessed  the  la- 
one  night  at  a  conflagra- 
ysical  people,  a  nation  of 
le  one  of  the  engines,  in 
uachines  which  he  thought 
capacities  of  republicans. 
lys  admiring  the  results  of 
ety;  and  the  sagacity  and 
ere  not  only  gratifying,  but 
;nt  was  here  on  the  political 
I !    The  old  world  is  man- 
Df  her  inhabitants  are  etand- 
h  their  weapons  presented, 
the  cogs  of  a  cider  grinder, 
jn  of  brute  force.     What  an 
e  to  age  invested  in  arsenals 
',  and  powder-mills ;  yet  the 
5  under  new  appropriations, 
inions  over  them  for  a  time  ; 
)n  the  wing ;  and  what  shall 
When  a  crop  of  humanity 
iwers  of  a  new  season  are  to 
noves  again ;   its   course   is 
stream  of  human  gore.    The 
they  must  pass  through  Missi- 


longhi  to  reach  it.    The  Polanders  claimed  the  rights  of  men, 
and  they  are  sent  to  weep  their  loss  in  Siberia.     Wherever 
the  principles,  in  which  we  so  thanklessly  live,  are  even 
whispered  in  Europe,  there  comes  the  wild  beast  of  oppres- 
sion.    His  iron  step  is  heard  in  the  university,  his  gripe  ia 
felt  in  the  school  and  at  the  fireside:  while  on  this  side  of 
the  Atlantic,  education,  universal  example,  and  the  govern- 
ment—even self-interest  and  prejudice  itself,  invite,  nay, 
in  a  manner,  constrain  us  to  hear  the  language  of  liberty 
and  humanity,  and  to  associate  to  sustain  them ;  in  Europe, 
the  warmest  hearts  are  chilled  by  the  sight  of  the  mana- 
cles and  dungeons  to  which  such  sentiments  are  condemned. 
Indeed,  nobler,  more  exalted  men  than  we,  men  with  a  far 
livelier  and  more  active  devotion  to  the  good  of  mankind 
than  ourselves,  are  now,  while  we  speak,  shut  up  in  prison, 
in  loneliness  and  misery,  friendless  and  oppressed,  because 
the  enemies  of  truth  and  righteousness,  of  light  and  wisdom, 
of  liberty  and  right,  are  too  many  and  too  strong. 

Now  are  there  no  greater  duties  incumbent  on  us  than  to 
eat  and  drink,  and  take  the  good  of  the  things  around  us ! 
Is  there  no  higher  object  for  us  to  aim  at  than  merely  to 
gain  wealth  and  honour,  or  to  exercise  power  ?  Whoever 
devotes  himself  exclusively  to  either  of  these,  is  an  enemy 
of  our  country,  a  foe  to  mankind,  a  blot  on  our  land,  a  de- 
predator of  our  advantages,  an  ingrate  to  our  heavenly 
benefactor. 

The  two  hundred  and  thirty-six  Polanders  who  have  been 
sent  to  the  United  States,  by  the  arbitrary  and  inhuman 
power  of  Austria,  have  among  them  individuals  presenting 
peculiar  claims  to  the  interest  and  kindness  of  Aaiericans. 
Most  of  them  are  severe  sufferers  for  the  sake  of  liberal 
views  and  patriotic  exertions  in  favour  of  freedom.  A  few 
of  them,  however,  were  of  bad  character,  and  were  sent 
here  to  discredit  the  others.  The  government  of  Austria  is 
a  severe  despotism ;  and  one  of  its  most  detestable  features 
was  displayed  in  an  attempt  to  injure  the  characters  of  men 
whose  patriotism  they  hated  and  feared.  After  these  Po- 
landers had  been  imprisoned  at  Brinder  for  some  months, 
on  various  pretexts,  without  trial  or  charge,  having  been 

22 


250  REFLECTIONS  ON  SEEING  THEM. 

collected  from  diflerent  quarters,  anJ  generally  unacquainted 
S  each  other,  arrangements  were  made  to  transport  theni 
roT.este,Xe  they  were    to  embark  for  this  country. 
'JhfsteP  they  consented  to,  because  the  only  alternative 
off   e     was,  that  they  should  be  delivered  up  to  Russ.a. 
They  were  to  be  transported  in  detachments  ;  and  the  first 
that  wis  sent  ofF  consisted  of  those  who  had  been  imprisoned 
for  crimes,  that  their  conduct  might  make  an  impression  un- 
favou  le  to  the  patriots.    Since  their  arrival  m  America, 
a  discrimination  his  been  made,  and  the  unworthy  se  aside. 
HeHhey  now  are  on  our  coast,  necessarily  unknown, 
exfept  so  far  as  we  choose  to  seek  an  acquaintance  w  h 
them   ignorant  of  our  language,  manners,  and  habits,  but, 
She  blind  or  the  dumb!  presenting  on  that  account  dou- 
ble  claims  to  our  sympathy  and  aid      Like  those  suffenng 
under  some  natural  infirmity  from  which  we  are  happily  free 
2y  also  teach  us  lessons  of  gratitude  and  of  duty,  under  the 
suoerior  blessings  which  we  enjoy.  . 

A  banished  Pole  should  move  among  us  as  a  livmg 
monument  of  arbitrary  power,  and  whenever  we  look  upou 
Tm  it  should  be  with  the  recollection-"  Here  is  a  victim 
despotism  \  Here  is  a  man,  such  as  our  ancestors  would 
have  chosen  to  be,-if  offered  his  alternative-slavery  or 
Sanshment:  here  is  one  who  has  endured  that  arbitrary 
^wer  to  which  our  ancestors  would  not  submit,  but  re- 
iutPd  for  the  sake  of  their  children." 

seemed  to  me,  while  conversing  with  some  of  these 
lonely  exiles,  as  if  Providence  had  sent  them  among  us  at 
Zs  time  not  without  a  kind  design.     We  have  been  so  re- 
mote from  the  sight  of  oppression  and  violence,  so  long 
rcustom'd  to  regard  tyranny  and  lawless  rule  as  mere 
creatures  of  the  imagination,  that  when  sentiments  are  de- 
clared, and  measures  taken  tending  strong  y  that  way,  m- 
«tead  of  taking  the  .^^rm.  too  many  of  us  look  on  with  in- 
Serence  as  if  there  were  a  wall  of  impenetrable  brass 
e!ed  to  secure  our  liberty.     These  melancholy  and  silent 
strangers  seem  to  whisper  to  us,  to  beware  of  ourse  yes,  our 
f  eSom,  and  our  country :  and  if  their  presence  shall  rendor 
ualy  more  ^yatchful.  f  it  shall  lead  us  to  reflect  more  lu- 


a 

a 

n 

a 

ti 

h 

fl 

m 

vi 

ac 

al 

ar 

re 

a 

of 

or 

of 

ac 

no 

de 

in 

ah 

is, 

ha 

rac 

hai 

an( 

air 


««B577It»»".iU«*»»Wl'*f 


NG  THEM. 

1  generally  unacquainted 
!  made  to  transport  them 
nbark  for  this  country, 
use  the  only  alternative 
delivered  up  to  Russia, 
•tachments  ;  and  the  first 
who  had  been  imprisoned 
;  make  an  impression  un- 
their  arrival  in  America, 
id  the  imworthy  set  aside, 
ist,  necessarily  unknovvn, 
!ek  an  acquaintance  with 
manners,  and  habits,  but, 
iting  on  that  account  dou- 
aid.     Like  those  suffering 
which  we  are  happily  free, 
tude  and  of  duty,  under  the 

y-  ,.  . 

re  among  us  as  a  living 

id  whenever  we  look  upon 
ection — "  Here  is  a  victim 
uch  as  our  ancestors  would 
his  alternative— slavery  or 
has  endured  that  arbitrary 
would  not  submit,  but  re- 
Idren." 

rersing  with  some  of  these 
had  sent  them  among  us  at 
sign.     We  have  been  so  re- 
sion  and  violence,  so  long 
and  lawless  rule  as  mere 
at  when  sentiments  are  de- 
iding  strongly  that  way,  in- 
nany  of  us  look  on  with  in- 
wall  of  impenetrable  brass 
These  melancholy  and  silent 
,  to  beware  of  ourselves,  our 
if  their  presence  shall  render 
ill  lead  us  to  reflect  more  io- 


CONCtCSlON. 


261 


temly  on  the  mcst,mablc  privileges  we  possess,  of  the  deli- 
cate  and  responsible  trust  eommiited  to  us  for  the  benefit  of 
mankind  m  being  made  the  depositories  of  free  ins.itutions 
and  Chr.s.>an  hgu  and  liberty,  it  will  not  have  been  iS 
ha  our  sympathy  for  them  has  been  painfully  excited  or 
Juj^  they  have  been  deprived  of  pro'perty.  l^Z 


[^«KrTJI^;W''J«i4!i^WSWW5f)S?^ " 


ant  n^r.  n  ™""'u'"  ^''^  ^"'^  '^«'  ^^e  most  import- 

ant part  of  an  air  is  the  end;  and  that,  no    matter  what 
are  the  merits  of  a  composition,  if  there  be  approp  ra  e  ha 
niony  m  the  closing  note,  the  impression  must  be  delightlb 
and  the  hearers  will  be  co  .ent:  so  gourmands,  someUmes 
St'  Z:lT]  V""'  ''  ''^'^  ^•^°-«'  nior'sels  forThe 
flavours  and  spicery—because  its  taste  is  to  be  lasting.    How 
ZS'2     7:u'  '"  '"'''"^'  "'•"  "«"'''  "«^  inteLnaiy 
aavantage,  as  he  could  wish  to  make  a  happy  close    is 
avowed   him.     Here  I  am  suddenly  admoniSd,  br'tho 
amount  of  paper  I  have  blotted,  that  I  must  brinff  mv  hastr 

a  heap  of  materials  lymg  yet  untouched  before  me,  scenes 

orads'f  f?"?  "  '"\''"'^  -'■'y-'  --'i^  of  the  wise  and 
0  acles  of  fools,  remarks  of  chance-travellers,  and  thoughts 
of  my  own,  with  snatches  from  Greek  and  Latin  authors  un 
accountably  preserved  from  the  chaos  of  my  earfy  studies 
now  applied,  well  or  ill,  to  modern  affairslit  is  fn  vai„  to 
declare  that  a  book  to  be  appropriate,  should  be  neither  for 
in  advance  of,  nor  behind  society,  and  that  all  these  maleri 

is  iT  TTu- '"'  P""^''  '"  ^  «^«^"»-  i-xJ^ed,  the  fac. 
IS,  I  have  found  things  so  rapidly  moving  aro.nd  m;  while  I 
have  been  making  this  volume,  tliat  I  hav?  been  on  a  con  tant 
race  to  keep  up.  Now  out  of  breath,  indeed,  but  not  ex 
hausted  nor  emirely  discouraged,  I  am  advised  to  desisf- 
and,  even  while  I  hesitate,  am  chagrined  to  think  that  I 
already  begin  to  be  distanced.  ' 

I  feel,  in  short,  that  I  am  in  much  the  same  condition  ia 


f 


252 


CONCLUSION. 


Ui.h  T  iMt  saw  mv  old  friend  Tom  Slowstarter.     It  was 

poet,  or  a  prose-wnter ?    «a>^  Tom,     1  am 

Ud,much  less  ««»  ^J-f^^J'^J  T^ll^stand   any 

further  into  thmgs."— "If  you  V.  P  „ith us "—" Here's 

.  thing;' said  the  engineer  ';y^^^^^^^  X,^ 

gZg  to  knoJmuch,  you  can't  be  in  our  company.     Y  u 

Tom  laid  himself  almost  flat  with  ,^"7/ '"^  f,  "e^'l 

age  failed  m  an  mstant.     ««  f  J^JP^j^^e  ^u  the  caravar» 
like  a  post  m  the  m.ddle  of  the  «>^^^_J^^^^^^    giowstarter ! 

Jp  with  society."     Tom  has  never  smce  been  heard  oL 


IINIS. 


ora  Slowstarler.     It  was 
3.     We  had  stopped  "  to 
-(not  our  horses,  but  the 
hted  to  look  at  the  ma- 
eels  began  to  move,  and 
urry;  but  the  working  of 
ixed  him  so  much  that  he 
,  and  jump  in  Tom,  you'll 
'Are  you  speaking  to  a 
m ;  » I  am  not  behind  the 
it.'  1  want  to  look  a  little 
stop  to  understand   any 
n't  go  with  us."—"  Here's 
•»  I  want  to  know  a  little 
Bnl'llride."— "If  youare 
)e  in  our  company.     You 
thing  or  the  other  pretty 
)  see  it  go  round  once  or 
'm  ready ;  open  the  door." 
engine  had  begun  to  snort 
els  went  round  like  a  buzz, 
ith  running;— and  "Here, 
I  little  faster,  a  little  faster! 
le  was  straining  legs,  arms, 
th  his  companions.     "  You 
[lis  crisis ;  and  Tom's  cour- 
ive  up  the  chase,  and  stood 
road,  while  all  the  caravan 
Good-by,  Mr.  Slowstarter ! 
."Good-by,  good-by,"  said 
nd  family,— there's  nothmg 
-but  yet  \  wish  I  was  with 
to  find  less  fault,  and  keep 
jver  since  been  heard  of. 


3. 


L 


